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Yemen

Dreaming Big in Yemen’s Largest Displacement Camp

Ma’rib, Yemen – On the outskirts of Al Jufainah camp, Yemen’s largest displacement site, more than 15,000 families endure a harsh life far from home. Yet, 12-year-old Mohammed greets each day with unwavering enthusiasm. With a dusty schoolbag slung over his shoulders, he dreams of becoming a surgeon. Despite the dangerous journey across a busy highway to reach Al-Jeel Al-Jadeed School, his dedication to learning and his drive to overcome his family’s challenges keep him going.

Mohammed’s life hasn’t always been like this. A few years ago, he lived with his family in a modest neighbourhood in Sana’a. His father, Ahmed, worked as a bus driver while also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education. “We lived simply, but our home was filled with warmth,” Ahmed recalls. “Despite the challenges, we had stability.”

But everything changed in 2015. As the conflict in Sana’a escalated, the city became too dangerous to stay. “Schools, universities, and even daily work came to a halt. We had no choice but to leave and find safety,” Ahmed says.

The family’s journey of displacement has been filled with hardship. At first, they rented a house in Al-Jada’an for over a year. During this time, Ahmed and his wife balanced their university studies with the exhausting 30-kilometer daily commute to ensure Mohammed could attend school. But the pressure eventually forced them to move again, first for four years, and then once more as the conflict escalated.

With rental costs soaring elsewhere, the family chose to settle in Al Jufainah camp. When they arrived, they faced significant challenges, from harsh weather to limited schooling options. Over time, however, schools were established within the camp, giving children the opportunity to continue their education.

Although there have been improvements, overcrowding and extreme heat in the camp classrooms continue to pose significant challenges. Despite the long journey from his home to the classroom, Mohammed was determined to continue attending Al-Jeel Al-Jadeed School. “We tried to convince him to go to one of the camp schools, but the conditions were tough,” Ahmed explains. “Every day, he walks to school, crossing the busy asphalt road, determined to study there.”

The rapid increase in students across Ma’rib has placed unprecedented strain on the education system. “With displacement continuing to rise, schools are struggling to meet the growing demand for classrooms and teachers, leaving many children without access to quality learning opportunities,” explains Mohammed Qa’id, the Director of Education in Ma’rib.

In response, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) began constructing Al-Jeel Al-Jadeed School in 2021 as part of its Education in Emergencies project. “The school has significantly eased the pressure on other schools,” says Jamal Al-Zurqie, Field Assistant with IOM’s Peace and Recovery Programme. “It now accommodates over 3,500 students in morning and afternoon shifts, reducing the burden on schools in Al Jufainah camp.”

School Principal Jawad Al-Ghooli highlights the impact of the new school: “Before this school was built, students had to walk long distances or study in tents. Now, many have left the camp schools to join Al-Jeel because it provides a proper learning environment and better facilities.”

For Mohammed’s family, this school is more than just a place of learning; it represents renewed hope. “When he started attending, we noticed a big change in him,” Ahmed says. “He became more excited about his studies.”

Ahmed has also seen how these experiences have positively shaped Mohammed’s personality. Despite his young age, he is disciplined and passionate about learning. After school, he diligently does his homework. “His dedication makes us feel that all our efforts are paying off,” says Ahmed.

While the school has brought significant improvements, challenges remain. “We need to add a third floor to this school and hire more teachers,” Mohammed Qa’id explains. “Education is the key to ensuring an entire generation is not left behind.”

For Mohammed, the school is both a place of learning and a symbol of resilience and possibility. “One day, I’ll be a surgeon and give back to everyone who supported me,” he says with a bright smile.

The construction of Al-Jeel Al-Jadeed School, made possible by the generous support of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), has opened doors to quality education for displaced children and local communities in Ma’rib.

This story was written by Moayad Zaghdani, Multimedia Consultant with IOM Yemen.