On October 20, 23 Sudanese refugees graduated to become full teachers at the Normal Superior School of Abéché (ENSA in French) through a JRS and UNHCR scholarship, in collaboration with ENSA, and supported by JRS USA and Latter-Day Saint Charities.

Local authorities, representatives of ENSA, NGOs, the students, and their families attended the graduation ceremony, organized by JRS at the Faculty of Medicine of UNABA, Abéché, in Eastern Chad. The event highlighted importance of overcoming barriers to higher education for refugees, to contribute to their own empowerment, inclusion and futures.

“Through the opportunity to pursue higher education, Chad, JRS and UNHCR gave us the chance to acquire knowledge that can open the doors to the job market,” said Ibrahim  Mahamat, delegate of the ENSA graduates.

Since the launch of the scholarship in 2015, a total of 65 young refugees from thirteen different refugees camps have already graduated as teachers in geographer, history, and Arabic. The license is also certified by the Chadian system.

“You have now the knowledge, skills, confidence, compassion and ability of a qualified teacher,” explained Abaya Mahamat, Director of Internships and  Continuing Education.

“The Province of Ouaddaï will spare no effort to provide you with its unfailing support in the implementation of educational activities in the refugee camps of the province,” promised Daoud Doungous, Mayor of the city of Abéché.

“It is a moment when we share your joy, when your parents and teachers are proud of you,” said Denis Codjo Houzange, JRS Chad National Director.