Somalia faces one of the world’s most severe education challenges. The latest available World Bank/UNESCO data place adult literacy at just 54%, with a significant gender gap—approximately 44% for women compared with 65% for men. UNICEF also reports that 65% of primary-school-age children and 75% of secondary-school-age children are out of school, reflecting the continuing impact of poverty, displacement, conflict and limited education infrastructure.
These challenges are particularly acute for displaced and disadvantaged families. In Baidoa, Imam Zeyli’i School is located close to displacement settlements where many school-aged children have limited access to affordable education and few alternative schools within reasonable distance.
Growing enrolment at the school has increased pressure on available classrooms, facilities and learning resources, creating an ongoing need for additional learning space and educational support.
ARD established Imam Zeyli’i School in 2019 to provide accessible, tuition-free education to vulnerable children in Baidoa.
The school provides:
The school follows Somalia’s national curriculum and the educational requirements of the Federal and South West State Ministries of Education, while integrating academic learning, Islamic education, moral values and character development.
Supports the school feeding programme, providing nutritious daily meals for students and support for essential school feeding staff.
Supports teachers, classroom expansion, learning materials, training and essential hygiene supplies for students.
Supports teachers and school leadership, learning materials, teacher training, inclusive education and essential support for vulnerable students.
Has supported teachers and school leadership, contributing to the delivery and quality of education at the school.
Demand for education continues to place pressure on the school’s available infrastructure. ARD aims to strengthen and expand the school through additional classrooms, sanitation facilities and administrative space, together with improved furniture, learning materials and school equipment.
Continued investment will enable Imam Zeyli’i School to accommodate more vulnerable children while maintaining a safe and effective learning environment.
Through partnership and community support, ARD can expand learning opportunities, strengthen school facilities and provide vulnerable children with the education they need to build a better future.
