Amna Mohamed Ahmed, known as “Amna Oor,” has spent three decades running a school in Port Sudan, helping individuals, particularly women, to return to education amidst widespread conflict and illiteracy. The school serves not only as an educational institution but also as a sanctuary for those displaced by war. Students such as Nisreen Babiker and Maria Adam exemplify the transformative power of education, highlighting its crucial role in rebuilding lives.
In the war-affected region of Sudan, a dedicated school serves as a beacon of hope for many individuals seeking educational opportunities. Located in Port Sudan, the school is led by Amna Mohamed Ahmed, also known as “Amna Oor,” who has devoted thirty years to assisting community members in resuming their education. Her initiative began in 1995, prompted by the high rates of illiteracy among community members who expressed a strong desire to learn.
Amna’s classes provide a vital second chance for individuals who have missed formal educational opportunities, with a particular focus on women who face cultural and economic obstacles in obtaining an education. Among her students is 39-year-old Nisreen Babiker, who left school in 2001 due to familial responsibilities. She has now returned to the classroom with a renewed sense of purpose, feeling that she is embarking on a fresh educational journey.
The school has also become a refuge for those displaced by ongoing conflicts in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, leading to widespread violence and disruption. Maria Adam, a 28-year-old woman who fled her home, is among those seeking a better future through education, having dropped out of school at the age of 11. Her commitment to education is driven by the desire to positively impact her children’s lives.
The conflict has severely crippled Sudan’s education system, with estimates suggesting that over 90 percent of 19 million school-aged children lack access to formal education, as many classrooms have been repurposed to shelter displaced families. Even before these upheavals, Sudan was identified as a country on the verge of educational collapse. Nevertheless, the determination to learn at the Port Sudan school remains steadfast, with many students achieving promotions to high school and even completing university education.
Amna’s inspiring efforts are illustrated in her observations of students who transform from illiteracy to educational success. She describes the fulfillment derived from witnessing students progress from being seen as burdens to becoming productive, educated contributors to society. This transformation continues to fuel her passion for education in a region fraught with challenges.
In conclusion, Amna Mohamed Ahmed’s school in Port Sudan exemplifies resilience and hope amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan. By providing educational opportunities primarily for women and displaced persons, the school addresses significant barriers to learning. The stories of students like Nisreen Babiker and Maria Adam highlight the importance of education in rebuilding lives and communities in the face of adversity. Despite severe challenges, the commitment to education remains strong, offering a path to a brighter future for many.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
