MARIB, Yemen — On January 5, 2025, Deputy Minister of Education Ali Al-Abab inaugurated the start of classes in portable classrooms at the Al-Simya displacement camp in the Wadi Directorate of Marib, northeastern Yemen.

The initiative includes 12 ready-made classrooms equipped with desks, accommodating 889 students for both morning and evening sessions. This project was made possible through UNICEF's support via the Central Emergency Response Fund, as reported by the official Yemen News Agency (Saba).

During the launch event, Al-Abab praised UNICEF’s humanitarian efforts in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to bolster the education sector, particularly in Marib, which has received a significant influx of displaced individuals. The rapid increase in the number of displaced persons has overwhelmed the existing school infrastructure, leaving many students outside the education system.

He noted that the portable classrooms offer a more conducive learning environment for both students and teachers, which is essential for encouraging dropouts, especially girls, to return to school.

Al-Abab highlighted the severe challenges facing the education sector in Marib, particularly regarding infrastructure limitations that hinder capacity expansion. He emphasized the need for new, sustainable schools, additional classrooms, necessary equipment, and improved living conditions for teachers to prevent their migration to other professions.

The Education Office plans to enhance the educational environment in the camp by seeking additional funding for more alternative classrooms and addressing curriculum and teacher needs.