Education & Learning

Somali Family Services (SFS) delivers inclusive, resilient, and quality education programmes designed to support children and youth across all stages of learning, particularly those affected by vulnerability, displacement, and crisis. Our approach spans the full education continuum—from early childhood to youth employability—combining access, quality, and protection.

Priority Areas:

Early Childhood Education (ECE)

We support early learning for children aged 3–6 to build strong cognitive, social, and emotional foundations. Our ECE programs focus on play-based learning, school readiness, and parental engagement. We prioritize access for vulnerable and displaced children. Early investment improves long-term education outcomes and resilience.

Accelerated Basic Education (ABE) and Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL)

We provide flexible learning opportunities for out-of-school children and over-age learners to complete primary education. Through Teaching at the Right Level, instruction is tailored to children’s actual learning levels rather than age or grade. This approach improves literacy and numeracy outcomes rapidly. Our goal is to reintegrate learners into formal education or vocational pathways.

Emergency Education (EiE)

We ensure children continue learning during crises caused by conflict, displacement, or climate shocks. Our interventions include temporary learning spaces, emergency learning kits, and psychosocial support. We work closely with communities to restore safe learning environments quickly. Education during emergencies protects children from exploitation and long-term learning loss.

Teacher Training & Capacity Development

We strengthen teacher competencies through practical, continuous professional development. Training focuses on child-centered methodologies, classroom management, and inclusive education practices. We also support school leaders to improve governance and accountability. Strong teachers are central to quality learning outcomes.

Girl-Child Education & Retention

We address barriers that prevent girls from enrolling, attending, and completing school. Interventions include community awareness, mentorship programs, and support for menstrual hygiene management. We work with parents and local leaders to challenge harmful norms. Keeping girls in school improves family well-being and community development.

Technical and Vocational Education & Training (TVET)

We provide market-driven vocational training aligned with local labor demand. Courses include practical skills, entrepreneurship, and basic financial literacy. We link trainees to apprenticeships and employment opportunities. TVET supports self-reliance and reduces youth vulnerability.

Youth Skills & Employability

We equip young people with life skills, digital literacy, and career readiness competencies. Programs combine soft skills development with mentorship and job placement support. We prioritize marginalized and unemployed youth. Our approach strengthens economic inclusion and social stability.

School Infrastructure & Learning Materials Support

We rehabilitate classrooms, construct gender-sensitive sanitation facilities, and improve access to safe water in schools. We also provide textbooks, teaching aids, and learning supplies. Safe and well-equipped schools enhance attendance and retention. Infrastructure support is integrated with community ownership mechanisms.

Education in Protracted Displacement Settings

We deliver sustained education services in IDP camps and host communities affected by long-term displacement. Our programs address overcrowding, mobility, and protection risks. We collaborate with local authorities to strengthen inclusive education systems. The aim is continuity, stability, and long-term learning progression for displaced children.