Nine years of conflict have left Yemen’s various sectors grappling with significant challenges. The education sector is one of the hardest hits. 34 schools have been entirely or partially destroyed or used for non-educational purposes and 6 schools that are closed. Hundreds of thousands of children, particularly girls, have been deprived of their basic right to education.

Tariq School in Al-Shariya District, Al-Bayda Governorate, was a stark representation of the forgotten education system, with dilapidated classrooms lacking basic necessities such as doors, windows, and chairs. Furthermore, a lack of belief in the value of education for girls, coupled with the long distances to the nearest schools, has resulted in a significant number of Al-Shariya’s girls being kept out of school. Boys, on the other hand, endure long journeys daily to attain an education.

During an assessment visit by the National Foundation for Development and Humanitarian Response (NFDHR) to Tariq School, Ms. Safaa Al-Qiri, a teacher at the school, described its state as "almost in ruins". The harsh conditions have led to children falling sick frequently owing to the cold weather, unsanitary conditions, and exposure to insect bites. Tariq School is home to 120 children, from first to third grade, whose desire to learn remains steadfast despite the appalling state of their school. “These children deserve a better educational atmosphere. For them, something as simple as a chair to sit on while they learn represents a profound aspiration," Ms. Safaa said.

In mid-October 2022, NFDHR embarked on a project aimed at improving the education for displaced children and host communities in the districts of Al-Shariya, Naman, and Natte’ in the Al-Bayda Governorate, and Ad Durayhmi District in Al-Hodeidah Governorate, thanks to funding from the Yemen Humanitarian Fund (YHF). The initiative saw the construction of three classrooms and two bathrooms at Tariq School, the rehabilitation of another school (Al-Nedhal School), and the provision of essential learning equipment, including double-seat chairs, whiteboards, and markers.

The start of the 2023-2024 academic year brought about a renewed sense of hope and joy for the students at Tariq School. For the first time, they would be studying in clean classrooms and sitting on chairs. Students and their teacher, Ms. Safaa, warmly welcomed this development. Ahmad Al-Abbasi, Director of the Education Office in Al-Shariya District, acknowledged the significance of this improvement despite its modest scale compared to what the area needs.

Such an intervention is a testament to our commitment to the education sector and underscores the YHF's pivotal role in supporting Yemen's education sector. However, the journey is far from over. More schools and children in Yemen need immediate attention and support.