Reach Out To Asia (Rota), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development is working to “transform the lives” of thousands of children in Tunisia, through its ‘My Education…My Hope’ project, co-funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and implemented by Islamic Relief.
The programme aims to improve the quality of education and teaching in the Medenine governorate.
The initiative is set to impact more than 11,700 students, train 394 teachers, and benefit 18,400 mobile library and 100,800 public library users.
Rota’s executive director, Essa al-Mannai, said: “We are working to transform the lives of the children of Tunisia. Many of the schools in the Medenine governorate lack the basic requirements needed to ensure a suitable learning environment. Therefore, by providing the necessary tools and infrastructure, we are hoping to significantly enhance the quality of education in the region and facilitate a rich and effective learning experience for children and teachers.”
Formed as part of Rota’s Gala Dinner 2015 projects, the initiative was established to address the educational needs of students living in the underserved Medenine governorate through the building of schools and libraries, and the deployment of innovative technology. In addition to construction and the introduction of new technologies, the project is helping to breathe new life into educational and recreational facilities at 14 existing schools in the region. Restoration of these facilities is vital to ensuring a safe and aesthetically pleasing learning environment.
The project, which launched in January 2015, has carried out work at El Kharrouba School, benefitting around 400 students, and Rue L’Hopitale School, improving the lives of a further 415 children. Both facilities have seen major improvements to the schoolyards, latrines and stadiums.
Green spaces have been expanded for children to enjoy outdoor activities, along with proper bathroom facilities and access to running water.
On completion of the renovation works, an ‘I Decorate My School’ day was held, giving children the opportunity to play an active role in the restoration efforts. During the event, students helped to paint classroom walls and decorate the school grounds with colourful, recycled plastic goods.
The programme has invested in training 64 teachers to equip them with the necessary skills to tutor students and library users on the practical applications of the ICT tools.