Turning classrooms in Malakal into places of hope

In Malakal in Upper Nile State, many children have long tried to learn without the most basic tools. At a primary school located inside the Protection of Civilian (PoC) site, pupils once sat on floors or crowded benches, struggling to write, concentrate, and stay motivated.

With support from the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO)-funded Education in Emergencies and Child Protection project, that is changing. Desks and learning materials are restoring dignity in the classroom and helping children learn with confidence.

Before the intervention, writing on laps was common. To improve conditions, World Vision International, in partnership with War Child and the Humanitarian and Development Consortium, provided 100 classroom desks, benefiting 400 learners.

The impact was immediate.

“Before, we used to sit on flat metallic benches without desks. It was hard to balance, write properly, or even concentrate in class,” said Theophilus, 16. “Now our classroom looks beautiful, and we sit comfortably while writing our notes.”

“I used to feel frustrated and tired because of sitting on the floor. Sometimes I wanted to quit school, but now with the new desks, I feel happy and focused. My dream of becoming a doctor feels possible again,” added Nyajuma, 17.

“Our classroom became very attractive because of the desks. They make us comfortable and eager to participate actively in lessons. I feel blessed because God sent World Vision to support our school,” said Monday Joseph, 17.

At the same time, the project addressed another major barrier—lack of school supplies. Many families in Malakal PoC cannot afford basic materials, forcing some children to miss school or drop out.

Through the project, learners received exercise books, pens, pencils, sharpeners, and rulers. These are simple tools that are improving attendance and participation.

“Before, many of us struggled to write notes because we had no exercise books or pens. Some of my friends dropped out because their families couldn’t afford supplies. But with the project’s support, we can now attend classes and do our homework confidently. I am so grateful,” said Sana, 17.

“My mother has no job, and my father’s work is not permanent. I used to miss school when I had no books. Now I have what I need to learn and succeed. This support has truly helped me,” said Achuany, 16.

Teachers have also seen clear improvements.

“I feel proud seeing my learners seated comfortably, happy, and focused. The transformation is visible,” said headteacher Mr. Ogeth Awang. He added, “We thank our heavenly father for the educational supplies. They have given our learners joy and hope and made them more focused. The change in their attitude towards learning is clear.”

For Project Manager Emmanuel Awori, the impact goes beyond materials.

“Something as simple as a desk restores a child’s dignity and motivation to learn. Through ECHO’s support, we are not only improving infrastructure but giving children the confidence to dream again,” he said.

“Providing learning materials is not just about giving pens and books, but about empowering children to learn with confidence. It lifts a burden off families and rekindles children’s hope for a better future.”

Story and photos by Akot Lem/World Vision