International Day of Literacy: AMA supports communities through education projects

Africa Muslims Agency (AMA) has been a long time supporter of education projects and empowering people around the world.
We believe that education is key in breaking the cycle of poverty, by allowing people, young and old to develop new skills, and be able to work.
Not only does education help people earn an income through work, it also allows women to become decision makers, take control of their life, it helps children think critically and interact with others and it boosts creativity.
Our goal has always been a more just society, and helping some of the most vulnerable communities around the world.
For World Literacy Day, an international UN day designed to highlight the improvements and importance to world literacy, we take a closer look at some of our ongoing projects and how they are helping people.
Aman School of Excellence, Lebanon
Located in the Beqaa region of Lebanon, this school was opened by AMA and serves around 650 refugee and disadvantaged children.
The school offers formal education to children who have been displaced and have little access to basic public services.
All of the teachers at the school are formally trained, and the school offers psycho-social support.
In the years that the school has been open, teachers and parents have noticed significant development in the students.
Children have access to science labs, a library, playgrounds and have a sense of belonging at the school. They are also able to make new friends and have a sense of normalcy.
As well as helping develop their mental and emotional well-being, the Aman school has also allowed students to excel academically.
All students at the school are able to read and write, as well as engage with others in an academic setting.
Extra classes and enrichment classes are also held for students who need it, ensuring that they are constantly developing.
Khadijutul Kubra, Afghanistan
Located in Kabul, Afghanistan, this school offers education to young children, free of charge. Girls have the opportunity to learn Islamic studies at the school, where they would otherwise have no access to any form of schooling.
The school caters to around 300 students, who are all able to read and write.
With AMA’s support, and support from donors, AMA was able to renovate and relocate the school in 2021, making room for more classrooms and making it a more engaging learning environment.
Afghanistan, which is currently experiencing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, has high rates of illiteracy which leaves children with a lack of confidence, skills and unable to get jobs that can secure a liveable salary.
The school has allowed the students to make new friends, in one of the most destitute parts of Kabul.
Teachers at the school say that the students are overjoyed to attend the school, particularly as they would otherwise have no access to any form of education.
Maktabs, Africa
In Africa, AMA is actively involved in building classrooms and schools across the continent. These schools serve as centers for education, including the teaching of Maktab programs, in addition to their role as Islamic centers and masjids.
These initiatives have a broad impact, empowering local communities with education and life skills.
This education outreach is especially beneficial for women and people in rural villages who visit the masjids.
These programs are instrumental in providing education and learning opportunities for children in rural areas of Africa, helping them access quality education and improve their prospects.
Al Furqaan Islamic Centre, South Africa
Located in Finetown, Johannesburg, this centre is home to male students aged 13-20, who attend grades 9-12.
At the school they are provided with Islamic education alongside their ordinary studies.
Many children in South Africa never receive the chance to gain a quality education or mentoring that can set them on the correct track for a brighter future.
The concept and origin of Al-Furqaan Islamic Centre was to give the disadvantaged communities an opportunity to be educated with a full Private Tuition Program to not only build, but also instill in them Future Leadership qualities and empower them towards greatness.
Students attending the school have access to uniforms, food, accommodation, tuition, transport and extra curricular programmes.
AMA goes further by providing bursaries for students who require financial assistance to pursue their education. The organisation also plays a role in promoting literacy by printing and distributing free literature to communities across the country. This literature distribution enables people to access reading materials, which can be vital for learning and personal growth.
The school has a mosque to allow the students to pray in congregation as well as a computer lab, vocational skills centre, training room and other recreational facilities.