A Beacon of Hope: Education Resumes in War-Torn Sudan

In eastern Sudan, the school founded by Amna Mohamed Ahmed provides educational opportunities to individuals affected by conflict, particularly women and the displaced. Many students, like Nisreen Babiker and Maria Adam, pursue their dreams of education despite significant challenges. The school has become a refuge where individuals can renew their aspirations and contribute to their communities, highlighting the transformative power of education amidst adversity.

In eastern Sudan, amidst a war-torn landscape, a school founded by Amna Mohamed Ahmed, affectionately known as “Amna Oor,” strives to empower individuals through education. At 63 years old, Amna has dedicated over thirty years to helping individuals return to their studies in Port Sudan, as she recognized the profound impact of widespread illiteracy in her community. Her initiative began in 1995, inspired by the strong desire within her community for the opportunity to learn.

Among the students is 39-year-old Nisreen Babiker, who views returning to school as a long-held aspiration. After she left her studies in 2001 due to family obligations, the desire to pursue education never waned. “Even after all these years, it feels like I’m starting fresh,” she reflects, embodying the spirit of renewal that characterizes the school.

The institution also serves as a refuge for individuals displaced by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023. Maria Adam, a 28-year-old who fled her home, enrolled in the school after hearing about its offerings. “I want to finish my education so I can help my children,” she shares, showcasing the transformative power of education amid adversity.

The conflict has severely disrupted Sudan’s education system, with over 90 percent of school-age children lacking access to formal learning according to United Nations estimates. Many classrooms have been repurposed as shelters for displaced families, revealing the extensive challenges faced by the educational sector. Despite this, the determination of students at the Port Sudan school remains resolute, with many advancing to high school and some even graduating from universities.

Amna Ahmed passionately describes the profound change education brings to individuals: “To watch someone go from not knowing how to read or write to graduating from university… that is what keeps me going.” She emphasizes the transformative journey from perceived burdens to empowered, educated citizens—a narrative that reflects hope and resilience in the face of challenges.

In conclusion, the school initiated by Amna Mohamed Ahmed stands as a beacon of hope for individuals in war-torn Sudan, particularly women and displaced persons seeking education. Despite the overwhelming challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, the determination of students to learn continues to thrive, facilitating personal empowerment and societal contributions. The commitment to education is fostering a brighter future despite grave circumstances.

Original Source: www.iosconews.com