The Documentary Podcast
The Fifth Floor: Education against the odds
May 3, 2025
Saif Rebai from BBC Arabic Xtra shares inspiring tales from the Libyan desert, highlighting a teacher's relentless 40km journey to educate children in a remote village. The discussion reveals the staggering issue of over 30 million kids out of school in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly those affected by crises in Sudan and Gaza. Joining him are Hanan Razek and Georgina Pearce, who detail innovative educational programs aimed at connecting these children to essential learning resources, showcasing resilience and hope in dire circumstances.
26:33
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Quick takeaways
- Dars Arabic is an initiative aimed at providing displaced children in conflict zones with engaging educational content to promote learning amid adversity.
- The program incorporates mental health education to help children cope with trauma and emotional challenges caused by war and displacement.
Deep dives
Educational Opportunities Amidst Crisis
A significant number of children in the Middle East and North Africa are currently out of school due to ongoing conflicts, with UNICEF reporting at least 30 million affected. In response, a BBC initiative called Dars has been launched to provide educational content for children aged 11 to 16, focusing on various subjects including math, science, and mental health. Initially aimed at Afghan students barred from secondary education, the program is now also available in Arabic to reach more displaced children across the region. This effort seeks to keep students engaged with learning despite the challenges posed by conflict and displacement.
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