Bringing Cheer back to school in Tal Rifaat

Project Overview
This project aims to rehabilitate Jamila Bouhayir School in Tal Rifaat, northern Syria, following extensive damage caused by years of conflict. The intervention includes repairing classrooms, restrooms, and the school courtyard, as well as providing essential furniture and educational materials. Once completed, the school will be able to resume full-day operations and accommodate over 600 students who are currently studying in overcrowded double shifts due to limited capacity.

Emergency Context
Tal Rifaat, located in the Aleppo Governorate, has been significantly affected by the Syrian conflict since 2011. The situation worsened in February 2016 when armed conflict led to widespread displacement, forcing thousands of residents to flee to nearby areas and across the Turkish border. Prolonged violence and bombardment severely damaged critical infrastructure, including schools, healthcare facilities, and housing, depriving children of access to safe and consistent education.

Following the liberation of the city in December 2024, approximately 25,000 residents have returned and begun rebuilding their lives. Despite this progress, most educational facilities remain non-functional. Many children are currently studying in temporary caravan classrooms originally used in refugee camps. These structures are overcrowded, unsafe, and unsuitable for effective learning.

Conclusion
The restoration of Jamila Bouhayir School is a critical step toward re-establishing access to quality education in Tal Rifaat. By providing a safe and functional learning environment, the project will support the educational needs and well-being of hundreds of children while contributing to broader community recovery and stability. Continued donations, funding, and external support are essential to accelerate the rehabilitation process and ensure the timely completion of the school.

Links:

• Education and Capacity Building