‘A good teacher instills a love for learning’

“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” This is what Math teacher, Sally Ahmad, thrives to accomplish through her work as a teacher. Most of her students come from Syria, who have fallen behind in school and have missed school for years due to the war.

For her, teaching is more than a job. It is rewarding because she can see the outcome of the love, and passion she put into it with her students. Sally has been part of the ‘Back To The Future’ project since February of this year. Her love for children and teaching made her apply for the project.

Sally teaches math to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. She says: “This is a crucial stage for children, it’s not just about studying. Children at this age are still absorbing from their surroundings, so we need to be role models for them, guide them and be there when they need us.”

In her classroom, the atmosphere is fun, and interactive. She creates a safe environment for the children where everyone feels appreciated. The project means a lot for her, as she says: “The project is very important, especially for the children. It helps and supports students. It gives them a sense of belonging and importance in the community when they see that there are people who care about them and want them to succeed.”

Sally noticed great improvement with students since the last semester. They interact in the classroom and are more comfortable, and confident.

The major education initiative ‘Back to the Future’ will reach over 21,400 Syrian, Jordanian and  Lebanese children. The initiative sees AVSI, Terre des Hommes Italia, Terre des Hommes Netherlands and War Child – with the support of the European Union EU Madad Fund – address the learning needs of children from both refugee and host communities in Lebanon and Jordan.  The coalition project brings learning opportunities to children who have been denied access to formal education. Teachers are playing a vital role in the project’s success.