Meet Rania* a Syrian refugee child whose family fled the war in Syria and travelled for two days, crossing mountains on foot until they reached Lebanon. Rania's childhood was marked by war, displacement and poverty. She lived cooped in a one room apartment that lacked basic facilities with her sister, two brothers and her parents. Traumatised by war, upheaval and living in a stressed family environment caused by poverty, she had never received any education whatsoever.
When they reached Lebanon they faced no state support or schooling rights. Rania spent most of her time in the apartment, where her father worked as a janitor for a meager income.
Rania's parents were unable to care about her education. They wanted to find her a husband as soon as possible to reduce their expenses. But Rania had a different dream and a thirst for knowledge. She joined our Oasis programme, where she pursued her education despite being much older than some of the other students.
Despite having to make huge adjustments (her brain simply wasn't used to a learning environment) - and being a 13 year old in a class with children as young as 5 - her excellent attitude and determination started to pay off. Within only a year Rania was able to join the regular school at our Dar el Awlad complex. An incredible achievement!
Rania is now 16 years old and in Grade 3 (the equivalent class in the UK of a 9 year old), but is doing extremely well and is a joy to teach. She particularly likes maths and drawing and wants to become an architect when she grows up.
So thank you for all you do for children like Rania and many others like her in our Oasis programme. Your support is having a real impact on real vulnerable children.
*Name changed to protect privacy