Explore the compelling narratives of Ethiopian students as they overcome the challenges of pursuing education in a post-conflict environment.
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In the wake of a devastating civil war in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, the educational landscape remains bleak for many children. Approximately half of the children in the area, totaling around 1.2 million, are still unable to return to school three years after the conflict.
This situation hampers their academic growth and poses significant challenges to their emotional and psychological well-being.
During a recent visit organized by Trócaire, journalists from the Irish News engaged with students at the Aynalem school near Mekele. Educators at this institution implement a curriculum specifically designed to aid in recovering from trauma, allowing children to process their experiences in a supportive environment.
The lingering effects of conflict
For the students who have managed to return to school, the shadows of their experiences still linger. Many exhibit signs of trauma, manifesting in various ways, including aggression and addiction. The echoes of their past often haunt them, making everyday activities feel like a struggle.
Glebnemedhin Gebrezgiher, a mathematics teacher, shared insights about his students: “They still have a fear inside; the past continues to haunt them, even amidst laughter and play.”
Overcoming trauma through education
Engaging with their peers in the schoolyard, students express aspirations ranging from becoming professional athletes to pursuing careers in journalism. Despite the joy of reconnecting with friends and participating in extracurricular activities, students still confront reminders of their trauma. The school itself was previously occupied by military forces, which contributes to the anxiety associated with their learning environment.
One student recounted distressing memories of gunfire and the sound of jets overhead, noting that such sounds still trigger feelings of fear and anxiety. Another student shared how sports serve as an emotional outlet, helping him cope with his feelings. This reliance on physical activity highlights the critical role that schools play in fostering resilience and nurturing hope.
Challenges within the educational system
With the closure of schools during the conflict, many students feel they have lost precious years of learning. One young girl expressed the deep emotional toll of being separated from friends and experiencing the chaos of war. She articulated, “When the school was shut, we lost two to three years of our education.” Teachers have had to compress the lost years of learning into an intense three-month period, leaving students feeling overwhelmed.
Hope through community support
Despite these challenges, the spirit of hope remains strong among the students. They find solace in the school environment, where they can share their experiences and support one another. A girl mentioned that discussing school activities helps them forget their fears and fosters a sense of normalcy. The friendships formed in the school setting provide emotional support, allowing students to express their feelings and cope with their shared experiences.
Former student Filimon Zeray, now 20 years old, shared his journey of self-discovery and resilience. After fleeing to northern Tigray alone, his initial struggles in an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp led him to seek education as a means of healing. He now aspires to become a sports journalist, inspired by the supportive community he found within the school.
Similarly, 16-year-old Tsega Zenebe expressed enthusiasm for her education at the school, despite limited resources. Her ambition to become a football player is fueled by the confidence she gains from participating in school activities. She explained, “Me and my friends study together and help each other with our education and emotional well-being, creating a supportive network.”
These narratives highlight the resilience of Ethiopian youth in the face of adversity. The recovery from trauma is a complex journey, but the role of education in fostering hope and rebuilding lives is undeniable. As the country continues to heal from conflict, the stories of these students serve as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to overcome.
