A Brighter Future for Yemen’s Children:

The conflict in Yemen has made its impact on the education of 16-year-old Rahma from Marib, Yemen. She dropped out of school for one year as a result of the overcrowded school she used to go to and absence of proper bathrooms in school.

The story of Rahma is the story of millions of millions of children in Yemen, who dropped out of school and those who did not have learning opportunities. Today, there are more than 3.7 million children, who do not have learning opportunities as a result of the ongoing conflict and millions of children did not have a choice but to learn in unsuitable conditions like overcrowded classrooms, tents and schools lacking basic facilities. These circumstances also impacted the quality of education and hindered many children, especially girls from continuing to learn.

“Overcrowding made it difficult for me to understand the subjects and interact with teachers,” says Rahma, a 16-year-old second-year secondary student from Al-Shadadi school in Marib.

She recalls the difficulties. “The classrooms were overcrowded and did not have enough desks. It was hard to focus with the teachers and participate in lessons, but everything changed after the new classrooms were built”.

While education in Yemen continues to face immense 

Creating a Better Learning Environment

Thanks to UNICEF support and funding from the German Federal Government through KfW Development Bank, the new classrooms brought smiles back to students and teachers. The project included the construction of 10 classrooms and six bathrooms, a major improvement for girls from displaced families and the host community.

“The situation at our school was very difficult before,” says Rokia Al-Rajawi, principal of Al-Shadadi School. She adds: “The classrooms were few, small, and overcrowded, with 70 to 80 students in each class. The school had only eight classrooms and three tents to accommodate 900 students across morning and afternoon shifts”.

“This intervention improved the learning environment for students,” says the principal. “Overcrowding has decreased, and teachers can now explain lessons and deliver information effectively. Seeing the girls in proper classrooms after moving them out of tents is an indescribable feeling of joy.”

The impact has been profound. “Parents’ attitudes have changed, and 300 girls [including Rahma] who had previously dropped out have returned to school,” Rokia adds.

A Renewed Sense of Purpose

Rahma’s face lights up as she shares her experience: “When I saw the new classrooms, I felt joy and happiness. They reduced overcrowding and created a stimulating learning environment after years of hardship. I can now concentrate better during lessons. My feelings toward school have changed—I love it more, and I’m motivated to learn and achieve my dream.”

She adds with confidence, “I feel I can dream about the future. I want to become a dentist, which has been my dream since I started school.”

A Brighter Future for Yemen’s Children

The new classrooms have also made a significant difference for teachers. Ghania Abdo, a teacher at Al-Shadadi School, reflects on the transformation: “Before the new building, classrooms were overcrowded, poorly ventilated, and lacked proper lighting. It was difficult to teach effectively, and many students struggled academically. Some even dropped out.”

She smiles as she describes the change: “Now the school is more comfortable for both students and teachers. The improved environment has had a positive psychological impact. Students are happier, more motivated, and actively engaged in learning. It brings me great joy to see those who had dropped out returning to continue their education.”