ASKUALA Program in Hamusit


The TESE ASKUALA program in Hamusit, under the leadership of Program Coordinator Enatnesh Alemayehu, has played a crucial role in conflict affected educational recovery and community development. The initiative focuses on teacher training, school rehabilitation, and student support, demonstrating a successful model of collaborative efforts between universities, local schools, and community members.
One of the first tasks undertaken by the program associates was cleaning and rehabilitating schools that had been used as military bases during regional conflicts. As Enatnesh noted, “Every classroom was a shelter for soldiers of both sides”. This effort was essential in creating a conducive learning environment, as schools had been non-functional for an extended period. The cleanup initiative symbolizes the transition from conflict to recovery, emphasizing education as a cornerstone of stability.
A major component of the program was the Post-Graduate Diploma in Teaching (PGDT) training provided in collaboration with Debretabor University. The training was highly participatory, with 80 trainees divided into two classrooms. Enatnesh observed that “The GUYs’ attendance, participation, and communication with their instructors was high”, indicating the effectiveness of the program’s instructional approach. However, a key challenge was balancing the intensive training schedule with the associates’ responsibilities in tutoring high school students, demonstrating the need for flexible program timelines in conflict affected settings.
Following their training, the associates were assigned to various roles, including tutoring Grade 11 and 12 students. Despite challenges such as inconsistent attendance due to students coming from rural areas, those who participated benefited significantly. Enatnesh highlighted the dedication of some associates, stating, “There were even some school associates who were working as regular teachers. I can mention Aynalem, Kedir, and Fasica”. This underscores the program’s role in supplementing the local teaching workforce, especially in underserved areas.
The program also contributed to revitalizing STEM education by reactivating non-functional ICT labs. Associates specializing in STEM reinstalled and repaired computers in Hamusit, Woreta, and Anbesame schools. “The STEM members reinstalled and activated the computers… After the ICT labs were activated, they started training students on basic computer skills”. This initiative bridged a critical technological gap, providing students with essential digital literacy skills necessary for modern education.
Beyond formal education, the program fostered community involvement through collective fundraising and environmental activities. Associates “collected money from member GUYs and prepared land for tree plantation”, demonstrating a holistic approach to development that integrates education with environmental sustainability.
The TESE ASKUALA program in Hamusit has made significant strides in conflict affected educational recovery through teacher training, infrastructure rehabilitation, and community engagement. Despite challenges such as time constraints and student attendance issues, the initiative has successfully restored learning opportunities and empowered both educators and students. The program serves as a model for similar interventions in conflict-affected regions, emphasizing collaboration, adaptability, and community-driven development.
ቀን፡ 2025-08-02 07:16:49