Building Strong Foundations in Education
A joint effort between UNICEF and Sheikh Abdullah Al-Nouri Charity Society to support Education in Yemen
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In war-torn Yemen, education emerges as the key challenge that puts this poor Arab country on the verge of collapse. The impact of the Yemeni conflict has reached deep into schools and classrooms. At the forefront of this challenging situation, we find the Yemeni teachers, who struggle to provide quality learning amidst a shortage of resources, outdated training, and limited development opportunities. Despite their perseverance, those teachers face overwhelming obstacles in nurturing young minds, as they strive to deliver good learning in overcrowded and under-resourced schools.
During these challenging times, UNICEF prioritized the education sector in Yemen and continued to deliver the most needed support to avoid further deterioration in this key sector. A new chapter in this support was made possible in partnership with and generous funding from the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Nouri Charity Society, which has extended a helping hand during these critical times.
One of the key activities through this support was providing the teachers in three schools with customized training programs designed to refine their teaching methods and offer students more interactive and impactful learning experiences. From the 4th to the 12th of August 2024, eight teachers from Shahouh Girls' School in Sayoun District and Sayyida Aisha School in Shibam District participated in a specialized training course focused on arithmetic teaching Skills, literacy training, and school management skills. The training aimed at enhancing teaching methods and improving student engagement in mathematics and literacy, often perceived as challenging for educators and students alike.
Enhancing Teaching Methods for Better Learning Outcomes
The training program equips teachers with strategies to simplify complex concepts. 53-year-old educational advisor and trainer, Abdullah Omar, introduced new skills for elementary school teachers. He noted that, "The training manual covers arithmetic concepts, mathematical patterns, geometry, measurement, and educational tools, with exercises tailored for secondary school teachers."
This structured approach aims to resolve issues where students struggle due to a lack of foundational skills from earlier grades.
Addressing Educational Challenges Across Subjects
Significant challenges face education from grades 4 to 12, often due to gaps in understanding. Abdullah emphasized, "Adequate teacher qualifications are crucial, and providing proper training at the start of each academic year is essential for achieving better educational outcomes."
Improving Literacy and Communication Skills
Arwa Al-Tayeb, 28, a teacher at Al-Sayyida Aisha School, said, "The play-based and tangible learning methodologies improve the students' participation by shifting the focus from teacher-led explanations to active participation. This engagement helps students retain information for a longer period."
The teachers in the targeted schools have witnessed a remarkable transformation in the students' learning outcomes. "The students are more engaged, more creative and more eager to learn" Said Arwa.
These types of customized training courses for Yemeni teachers make a difference in a challenging educational environment in Yemen, where many schools are damaged and around 4.5 million Yemeni children are out of school.
Another testimony came from Ghania Ahmed, a 25-year-old teacher at Al-Taawun School in Shahouh, who sought to improve her teaching methods and boost her knowledge to deliver better results and raise the level of her students. "I learned to simplify mathematical concepts using communication strategies, such as writing, listening, and tangible materials, making math more accessible for students," she noted.
Developing Core Skills for Future Success
In an ever-evolving world, developing core skills such as literacy, communication, and critical thinking has become paramount to ensure success for students. The teachers at school should be equipped with new strategies that bring classroom learning to life, making it accessible to each student.
"The training helped us learn effective ways to teach reading using seven key steps, enhancing skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Through this training, students are expected to master key communication skills and share their learning experiences with their families." Said Huda Saleh, a 47-year-old teacher at Shahouh Girls' Elementary School in Seyoun, Hadramaut.
Integrating New Strategies into Early Education
Warda Bahyan, the Arabic Language Supervisor, explained the training's focus on early reading. "The course examined reading skills in Yemeni schools and highlighted that a phonetic approach can reduce difficulties in early grades. Lessons were tailored to children's developmental needs to enhance reading and writing skills."
This capacity building program represents a significant step forward in enhancing the teaching of both mathematics and reading in Hadramaut Governorate. All the students actively participated and interacted, showing enthusiasm for this approach. Teacher Huda Obaid noted the positive impact of these efforts as students began to spell and read words correctly. The program aims to improve educational outcomes and foster a love of learning among students by equipping teachers with innovative skills and strategies.
