The Qatar-based Education Above All Foundation (EAA) is a beacon of hope for those living in conflict zones around the world. Despite the challenges and obstacles, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to deliver educational services and solutions to those who need it the most.
Since its establishment in 2012, the EAA has been working tirelessly to provide quality education to vulnerable and marginalized communities, especially in areas affected by conflict and crisis. The foundation firmly believes that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a better future for individuals and societies as a whole.
One of the main initiatives of the EAA is the Educate A Child (EAC) program, which aims to provide access to quality primary education for out-of-school children. Through partnerships with local organizations and governments, the EAC program has reached over 10 million children in 50 countries, including those affected by conflict in Syria, Yemen, and Afghanistan.
In addition to the EAC program, the EAA also implements various projects and initiatives to address the specific needs of conflict-affected communities. This includes the Educate A Refugee program, which focuses on providing education to refugee children and youth, and the Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) program, which aims to safeguard education in conflict-affected areas.
The EAA’s commitment to education in conflict zones goes beyond just providing access to schooling. The foundation also recognizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by children and youth in these areas. This includes psychosocial support, teacher training, and curriculum development that takes into account the cultural and linguistic diversity of these communities.
One of the most significant achievements of the EAA is the establishment of the Al Fakhoora program in Gaza, Palestine. This program, in partnership with local universities, provides scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, allowing them to pursue higher education and break the cycle of poverty. The program has also supported the reconstruction of schools and the provision of essential educational materials in Gaza.
Despite the ongoing conflict and challenges in the region, the EAA has remained committed to its mission in Gaza. In 2019, the foundation launched the “Rebuilding Education in Gaza” campaign, which aims to reconstruct and rehabilitate 100 schools in the region, providing a safe and conducive learning environment for thousands of children.
The EAA’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, and the foundation has received recognition and support from various organizations and individuals. In 2019, the EAA was awarded the prestigious WISE Prize for Education, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to improving access to education in conflict-affected areas.
The EAA’s work is not limited to the Middle East, as the foundation has also made significant strides in other conflict zones, such as in Myanmar and the Central African Republic. In Myanmar, the EAA has partnered with local organizations to provide education and psychosocial support to Rohingya refugee children, while in the Central African Republic, the foundation has supported the rehabilitation of schools and the training of teachers in conflict-affected areas.
The EAA’s unwavering dedication to providing education in conflict zones has not only impacted the lives of millions of children and youth but has also contributed to creating a more peaceful and sustainable future for these communities. Education is a powerful tool, and the EAA is using it to empower individuals and communities to overcome the challenges of conflict and build a better tomorrow.
In conclusion, the Qatar-based Education Above All Foundation is a shining example of how education can be a catalyst for positive change in the most challenging of circumstances. The foundation’s commitment and determination to deliver education in conflict zones have brought hope and opportunity to millions of children and youth, and their impact will continue to be felt for generations to come. Let us all support and applaud the EAA in their noble mission, and together, we can build a world where every child has access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
