Bridging the gap: enhanced facilities uplift Yemen's female students

In central southern Yemen, a quiet transformation is happening. Through the collaborative efforts of Medair and World Vision, WASH rehabilitation projects in thirteen schools have increased the number of female students in classrooms in Al Dhale governorate.

Sadam, a WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) manager of Medair, who was at the forefront of the transformation, found that the schools were in a terrible state, the bathrooms were unfit to use, there was no privacy, and it threatened the dignity of students, especially young girls.

Bayan, a twelve-year-old student, recalls past situations in which classmates dropped out. The new bathroom not only inspired attendees but brought joy and purpose back to their learning journey.

Haifa, the school principal, sees great relief among female students and broad benefits for the staff particularly teachers: “The improved facilities have not only provided comfort but have also protected health and prevented diseases that once plagued the school community,” explains Haifa.

Another young student, Rahaf, describes her loneliness as her friends were forced to stay home for health reasons. Now, due to the intervention of World Vision and Medair, there is a shared sense of comfort and happiness in the introduction of proper bathrooms, emphasising the vital role such facilities play in facilitating a full day of learning.

WASH manager Sadam points to the broader outcomes of the project beyond strengthening education, it has created positive behavior change and a new sense of equality among students. “The impact of the project has been significant, prompting calls for further support to extend these benefits to other communities,” said Saddam

Determined twelve-year-old Najat now dreams of a future in medicine, a testament to the possibilities that removing educational barriers has created. This narrative of youth is about more than bricks and mortar; it’s a matter of rewriting the future.

The water and sanitation rehabilitation work of 2023 in the thirteen supported schools is a powerful example of what can happen when community efforts come together with purposeful support. As enrollments rise and aspirations soar, continued support for such projects could turn the tide for countless other schools across Yemen, nurturing dreams and making them a reality.