"Lessons from the Past: Embracing Education and Seeking Meaning"

By salma irakoze
Embracing education and seeking life

My dad was an electrician. He was interested in painting pictures as a hobby. He was also keen on reading the newest best fiction books like “Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell and “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.” Running was his preferred sport. He was always a dedicated and hard-working family man. Back to my family, I still remember that my dad used to tell me, “If you don’t follow your parents’ education, the world will teach you a lesson,” according to the human search for meaning. The life we are living is not a good one. Some used “World Religion” to demonstrate that God is one, while others used to say the same by saying that there are many Gods. Philosophy, sociology, poets, and scientists all contribute to this conversation. I keep the inherently private nature of the construct of meaning in mind. It calls for a multidimensional and holistic view to explore more closely how it is experienced subjectively by individuals themselves. Being a community tutor and a primary teacher is where I’m working now.

 

This article briefly outlines three areas to advance understanding and practice of the human search for meaning, which is called theoretical aspects of the search. I also believe the same in every human being, living in this life and trying to create a new way of adopting and having a way of meaning, our way of living better while investing in education.

 

As women, for example, Art and Music are the best ways to be adopted by us, on how to play music when needed. Experiencing social inequality in the Dzaleka refugee camp is a stark reality for many displaced individuals who have sought refuge due to conflict, persecution, or other humanitarian crises. In such camps, people from diverse backgrounds and cultures are forced to live in close quarters, leading to unique challenges and dynamics that exacerbate social inequality. Here’s how social inequality may manifest in a refugee camp: Opportunities disproportionately affect women, making it challenging for them to break free from traditional gender roles and take on leadership roles within the camp. Additionally, language barriers, cultural differences, and prejudices can further isolate certain groups, hindering their integration into the broader community.

 

In the Dzaleka refugee camp, where access to education is limited and we do not have employment opportunities. There lies a glimmer of hope ignited by a group of passionate individuals, who believe in the power of education to create a brighter future. Among them is Amina, a young woman who had once faced the barriers of inequality herself. Access to good education and a job in Malawi was not easy, but she is now determined to break the cycle for others. Despite the odds stacked against her, Amina had managed to get access to education and experienced firsthand the transformative impact it can have on one’s life. With firm determination, she returned to the camp as a teacher, armed with a vision to empower the next generation.

 

Amina understood the challenges faced by the young girls in the camp who were at risk of being denied education. She believed that education was the key to unlocking their potential. With true education, she could be able to meet with different people and cultures that could help her with different ideas and opportunities, giving them a voice, and breaking the chains of inequality. Alongside a group of dedicated teachers, she established a makeshift school in the camp when she spoke to the USA ambassador. She demanded his assistance in building a school in the community, driven by the faith that every child deserves a chance to learn and dream. In the small classrooms of the camp school, Amina and her fellow teachers did not just impart academic knowledge; they also shared their life experiences and values, instilling in the students a sense of humanity and empathy. They encouraged the children and youth to actively participate in open dialogues, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. Through these dialogues, young minds were encouraged to express their thoughts, ideas, and concerns freely, knowing that their voices were valued and respected. This nurturing atmosphere allowed for the exchange of diverse perspectives, enriching the discussions and broadening the horizons of all participants.

 

As the students embraced education, they began to see life with new eyes. They learned to embrace the present moment, finding meaning and purpose in the midst of diversity. With each passing day, the school became a source of inspiration, nurturing resilience and self-discovery among the young minds. Beyond the confines of the camp, Amina and her team strived to create connections with the surrounding community. They believed that bridging the gap between the refugees and the locals could lead to mutual understanding and support. They organized events where cultural exchanges took place, building stronger bonds and breaking down stereotypes. Access to education and the opportunity to work in Malawi were restricted because of government policies that don’t allow refugees to work.

 

As the students progressed through their education, Amina and her team also focused on equipping them with practical skills. They initiated vocational training programs that provided opportunities for the older students to learn trades such as carpentry, tailoring and farming. These skills would prove invaluable once they left the camp, enabling them to support themselves and their families. Word of the transformative impact of the camp school spread, catching the attention of humanitarian organizations and individuals committed to making a difference. Financial support began pouring in, allowing Amina and her team to improve the school’s facilities and resources further.

 

With the influx of support, they extended their educational initiatives to include workshops on entrepreneurship, leadership and community development. The students were encouraged to dream big and believe in their potential to bring about positive change.

 

As the years passed, the Dzaleka camp community transformed. The children who once struggled to access education are now educated, empowered and confident individuals. When the school employed teachers that contributed to their families and the broader community, the cycle of inequality began to break, and a sense of hope and possibility pervaded the camp.

 

Amina’s vision had become a reality, and her dedication had sparked a chain reaction of positive impact. As the camp community continued to thrive and evolve, the story of the Dzaleka camp school became a shining example of what was possible when education and empowerment intersected. “Education is the key that unlocks the door to a brighter future, and empowerment is the force that propels us forward. When these two intersect, we witness the transformation of not just individuals but entire communities. Our community stands as a shining example of what is possible when we invest in education and empower every individual to reach their full potential.” The legacy of Amina’s passion and perseverance would forever serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring countless others to embrace life’s challenges and create a meaningful existence for themselves and those around them.

10 August, 2023