A new and unique opportunity for teaching has opened doors to working alongside a Community Development Centre (CDC) in Balbala. In Djibouti, CDCs are vital hubs focused on poverty alleviation, vocational training, social cohesion, and climate resilience for both the local population and refugees. These facilities are registered with the government and are managed by government ministries, international organisations, and NGOs.
When Ecole Emmanuel was closed, some of the workers looked into finding a new location for the school in Balbala, a heavily populated region outside of Djibouti City. While the library did not move there, a proposal was written and submitted to the Ministry of Youth and Children to ask about teaching in a CDC. Approval was almost instantly granted and conversations started about what kind of classes or work could be done in partnership with the CDC.
CDCs are located in different ‘quartiers,’ or neighbourhoods, around the city and in the surrounding region. As volunteers with a particular expertise become available, they will offer courses that address specific local needs. Even outside of course times, they remain places of welcome for children after school and for young adults to hang out.
Starting in June, courses in partnership with MMR will start at a CDC in Balbala. A computer class of up to 10 students will start on Tuesday mornings. On Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, English classes will be offered to young adults hoping to improve their skills as they search for a job. Other groups, which include homework help, exam preparation, game times, theatre, art, and more will meet on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons.
The partnership is in an exploratory phase. If all goes well, and according to the teachers’ availabilities, there is a potential for more courses to be offered.
Kerith Trust 