The Impact of the Better Learning Programme
The Norwegian Refugee Council's Better Learning Programme, funded by Education Cannot Wait, delivers mental health and psychosocial support alongside education for children in Gaza.
In a tent in Deir al-Balah, a 12-year-old named Masa carefully places her colored pencil on the page, tracing the curve of a wave. Her brown hair is pulled back in a ponytail, secured with plastic barrettes. The sea she draws is calm and inviting.
In her real world, she faces chaos and uncertainty. Yet through this simple act of creativity, Masa discovers a sanctuary where she can start to breathe again.
Creative Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Masa has experienced more loss than any child should. She recalls, "I used to live a beautiful and peaceful life where school was my happy place. But as the war began, we had to flee repeatedly, ending up in a tent. My life felt empty and filled with suffering."
Following the attacks and displacement, she battled daily with fear and despair. The establishment of a temporary learning space at the Saned site offered her a glimpse of the childhood she once cherished. Here, she immerses herself in lessons, reinforcing her lost skills in subjects like Arabic and maths, while forging new friendships and discovering joy through art.
Thanks to Education Cannot Wait (ECW), a global fund dedicated to education during emergencies, initiatives like this one aim to provide children with a path toward recovery and hope.
Learning as a Pathway to Healing
When Masa's family fled their home, she lost not just her shelter but also her school and friends. The silence of their tent compounded her anxiety. "I felt alone and distressed, with no one to talk to," she reflects.
Even stepping outside posed dangers; her mother insisted on keeping her inside for safety. The trauma of losing loved ones in airstrikes haunted her. "I woke up during the night terrified, sometimes needing to wake my brother to feel safe," Masa remembers.
The situation transformed when teachers visited her family’s tent, offering information about the new learning tent. This encouragement prompted her to join.
Today, Masa actively participates in psychosocial and educational sessions provided by the Better Learning Programme (BLP). This initiative seamlessly combines fundamental education with therapeutic tools designed to help children cope with trauma. "I learned deep breathing exercises and relaxation methods to manage my fears," states Masa.
Hope Takes Root Through Supportive Education
The heart of the initiative is teaching children self-regulation and coping skills. When anxiety strikes, Masa recalls her teacher’s guidance that negative thoughts diminish hope. She finds solace in drawing or conversing with friends to cope.
In addition, educators are trained to create safe, supportive environments conducive to children's emotional recovery. Since ECW began supporting education initiatives in the region, nearly one million children have benefitted, with girls constituting 51% of the recipients.
Masa reflects on her growth, saying, "Joining sessions in the learning tent brought hope back into my life. I made friends and created a routine. I’m drawing beautiful pictures again."
As Masa walks to the learning tent each day, she engages in reading, drawing, and relearning essential math and Arabic skills that war had nearly erased. Her dream of becoming a doctor fuels her passion. "I want to help other children. Every child deserves the chance to dream and build their future," she insists.
However, for children like her, the future remains uncertain. The need for continued investment in their education and mental health support is crucial, as BLP represents just one step in a lengthy journey towards complete recovery.
"The grant from ECW allows us to restore crucial mental health and educational services," states Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council. "But it's just the start of addressing a vast need. These children must not be overlooked."
In the small corner of her tent, Masa picks up her pencil once more. The waves in her artwork are beginning to flourish. Though she remains burdened by grief, her drawings convey a powerful message: resilience. "I love drawing the sea because it reminds me that life can still be beautiful," she concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Better Learning Programme?
The Better Learning Programme is an initiative by the Norwegian Refugee Council, funded by Education Cannot Wait, aimed at providing mental health support and education to children in crisis situations.
How has Masa coped with her trauma?
Masa has learned various coping techniques, including deep breathing exercises and drawing, helping her manage anxiety and rebuild her sense of hope.
What role does creative expression play in Masa's recovery?
Creative expression, such as drawing, has allowed Masa to process her emotions and find solace during difficult times, promoting her emotional and psychological recovery.
Who funds the Better Learning Programme?
The Better Learning Programme is funded by Education Cannot Wait, which focuses on providing education support during emergencies and crises.
What impact does education have on children in crisis situations?
Education serves as a stepping stone towards recovery for children in crises, offering stability, routine, and emotional healing.
