“200 displaced boys and girls have been given uniforms, books and pens after registering at the new school”

More than 200 displaced children living in Adado – the interim capital of the semi-autonomous state of Galmudug in Somalia – now have access to education after a school opened.

Maandeeq Academy was constructed in the camp called Badbaado (it means rescue) by Somali senator Abshir Ahmed Bukhari.

It is totally free and enrolled 200 displaced boys and girls who have been given uniforms, books and pens after registering.

Various parties of the community in Adado took part in the opening ceremony and speeches were given in appreciation of senator Abshir Ahmed’s efforts build and operate the school.

Mr Ahmed said: “I will fully sponsor the students and this institution will produce tomorrow’s leaders”. He has employed seven teachers.

The school has been given motto “Tomorrow’s leaders are learning here”.

Every child has the right to go to school, without danger or discrimination, and this step taken by Senator Abshir Ahmed will encourage many leaders and stakeholders.

I am standing up as a Global Youth Ambassador to bring an end to the barriers preventing girls and boys from going to school, including forced work and early marriage, conflict and attacks on schools, exploitation and discrimination. 

All children deserve the opportunity to learn and achieve their potential.