Saidi Abdikadir, a 14-year-old Somali Refugee and grade eight student, poses for a photo in front of his classroom at Horseed Primary School in Kakuma refugee camp. ©UNHCR/Eric Bakuli
The Education Cannot Wait Program has touched the lives of thousands of school children, ensuring they stay in school, and pursue their dreams.
Saidi Abdikadir’s face lights up as he wheels himself out of his classroom in Horseed Primary School in Kakuma refugee camp. He joins his friends for a quick game of football.
Before Saidi received the wheelchair in September 2023, his father, siblings and sometimes his friends used to push him to school on a wooden cart. The cart was uncomfortable, and he could not move without assistance.
“Before I received this wheelchair, I was always behind because it was hard to get to school. Now, I’m not just on time, I’m part of everything,” says the 14-year-old fifth grader.
The Somali refugee’s mobility is due to a donation from the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) program, which has made school more accessible and uplifted his spirits.
Bichar Michael, a 15-year-old Sudanese refugee and grade eight student, smiles for a photo at the assembly area at Horseed Primary School. ©UNHCR/Eric Bakuli
Like Saidi, Bichar Michael, has received immense support from the ECW program. The 15-year-old grade eight student sees it as a lifeline that has kept her anchored to her dreams of becoming a doctor.
“Getting sanitary towels and soap might not seem like much, but for me, it means I don’t have to miss school. I can focus on becoming a doctor,” says the Sudanese refugee.
Girls like Bichar receive hygiene hampers containing soap, sanitary towels, and underpants – support that has significantly impacted their ability to attend and participate in school consistently.
Teacher Joo Kafi Kuku poses for a picture at the assembly area at Horseed Primary School. ©UNHCR/Eric Bakuli
Joo Kafi Kuku speaks to the transformative impact of the ECW program from a teacher’s perspective.
“Seeing my students, especially those with disabilities, participate fully in class is a joy. The support from ECW has changed their lives,” he explains.
His commitment to adjusting teaching methods to include all students remains his top priority.
“Every child deserves to dream and learn. It’s our job to make that possible, and with ECW’s help, we’re doing just that,” he adds.
Bichar and Saidi’s testimonies are just a glimpse into the picture of determination and hope that dedicated support can provide displaced children, often in emergencies and protracted situations.
The ECW program’s impact extends beyond the tangible; it’s about igniting dreams, fostering independence, and building a community where every child, regardless of their circumstances, can aspire to greatness.
For Saidi, he can now keep his dreams of becoming a pilot alive.
“This wheelchair is my first step towards flying,” he says with a big smile.
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
