Women in Sudan are enduring severe hardships during the ongoing civil war, facing sexual violence and forced early marriages that rob them of educational opportunities. Amidst this crisis, the Al-Qadisiya girls’ school provides a vital refuge for learning and hope. Despite limited resources, students express their dreams of a better future. The conflict has exacerbated humanitarian challenges, with many girls at risk of abuse, highlighting the critical need for education and women’s representation in political processes.
The Impact of War on Women and Education in Sudan
In the ongoing civil war in Sudan, women are facing horrific challenges, including sexual violence used as a weapon of war. The humanitarian crisis has forced many young girls into early marriages, stripping them of their right to education and a hopeful future.
Located in a disadvantaged area of Port Sudan, the Al-Qadisiya girls’ school stands out as a beacon of hope amidst despair. Outside its yellow-painted gates, the surroundings are bleak, characterized by unpaved roads and makeshift homes. Yet, once inside, the atmosphere transforms with the sound of children’s laughter and vibrant artwork on the walls.
Educational Opportunities Amidst Hardships
In a sixth-grade classroom, a teacher distributes new textbooks, prompting applause from the eager students. Although the 80 girls in attendance squeeze into limited bench space and share math books, their access to education is a privilege. The school, supported by the European Union, offers a vital lifeline.
“I love school because I enjoy learning,” shares 12-year-old Hala, who dreams of becoming a doctor. Her friend Nada echoes this sentiment, expressing her ambition to excel and become a teacher. These aspirations stand in stark contrast to the reality many girls face in Sudan, where the civil war has led to the closure of numerous schools and left 17 million children without access to education.
Principal Mahasen Omar notes the overwhelming class sizes, with some classes reaching up to 150 students. The introduction of a school feeding program has been a significant improvement, providing meals to girls who often arrive hungry. “Many would faint due to a lack of food. The situation has improved with the introduction of meals,” she explains.
For many girls, the meal provided at school is often their only nourishment for the day, highlighting the dire circumstances they face.
The Humanitarian Crisis and Its Effects on Girls
The United Nations has declared Sudan as experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis globally, with 25 million people at risk of starvation. In this context, girls are particularly vulnerable, often facing early marriages as families seek to alleviate economic burdens. Fatma Suleiman from Save the Children emphasizes that education can safeguard these children from abuse and premature marriage.
“Girls as young as 12 are married off simply to reduce household expenses,” she reveals. The war has exacerbated these issues, but education provides a glimmer of hope, allowing girls to postpone marriage and envision a different future.
As fighting escalates in Sudan, women bear the brunt of the conflict, suffering loss, displacement, and targeted violence. The notorious RSF militia has been reported to commit egregious human rights violations, including the systematic rape of women as a war tactic.
UNICEF has documented over 200 cases of sexual violence against children in the past year alone, with even the youngest victims suffering unimaginable horrors. Political activist Nidal Yassin highlights the plight of Sudanese women, who endure severe hardships due to the ongoing conflict.
Nidal has been an advocate for change, participating in protests for freedom and democracy in 2019. While the overthrow of longtime ruler al-Bashir brought hope, the subsequent civil war has plunged the nation deeper into crisis. She calls for increased representation of women in political spheres, as their voices are crucial for driving progress.
“Fortunately, there are men who support us,” Nidal remarks, noting the challenges women face in having their voices heard in political discussions. She remains hopeful that her efforts will lead to greater recognition and empowerment for women in Sudan.