Facing Funding Challenges, Baidoa’s All-Girls School Strives to Empower Somalia’s Future Women Leaders

Struggles and Resilience at Abdalla Deerow School: A Haven for Girls’ Education in Baidoa

BAIDOA, Somalia (Baraarug) – In a world where education is the cornerstone of development, how do you sustain a vision in the face of dwindling support? This is the pressing question at Abdalla Deerow Primary and Secondary School, an all-girls institution in Baidoa named after the late Abdalla Deerow Isak. A former minister and speaker of the Somali parliament, Isak was tragically assassinated, yet his legacy lives on through this school, offering sanctuary and education to girls in a challenging environment.

Established in June 2006, Abdalla Deerow School was always meant to bridge the educational gap for girls who often find themselves at the periphery of educational opportunities. With an attendance of 1,578 students, the school offers morning and afternoon sessions dedicated exclusively to girls—a poignant reminder of the societal norms that prioritize boys’ education in Somalia.

Under the caring guidance of Principal Maano Mohamed Nur, the school’s aim is clear: “To provide education exclusively for girls who either lacked access to education or could not afford school fees.” Yet, this noble mission is now threatened by critical funding gaps. Many of the NGOs that once played a pivotal role in supporting the school have been impacted by cuts in U.S. foreign aid.

Why is it that cultural expectations often sideline girls? Traditional norms favor boys, expecting girls to marry early, manage household duties, or remain home. Such dynamics can leave a promising mind trapped by circumstances beyond her control. Adding fuel to this fire, economic constraints in low-income families mean that when budgets are tight, educational expenses such as uniforms and learning materials are earmarked for boys.

Security concerns further exacerbate the situation. In regions plagued by instability, girls—especially those who are internally displaced—face threats of violence that deter school attendance. Infrastructure shortcomings, such as inadequate facilities, also hinder progress. The absence of separate toilets and insufficient sanitation means many adolescent girls miss school during their periods.

It was the support of NGOs that once soothed these struggles. Principal Maano reflects, “The NGOs used to provide hygiene kits for the girls, learning materials like white chalks, and sanitation equipment. But now, the NGOs are facing their own challenges, and we no longer receive the assistance we used to have.”

Sixteen-year-old Jamila Abdiwahab shares her personal battle. “The challenge I face is that my school is far from our house. When it rains, the road gets flooded and full of potholes, making it impassable. On those days, I cannot go to school.” Climate-related issues, like flooding, only add to the woes, making daily school commutes perilous.

Yet the spirit of learning thrives against the odds. Fourteen-year-old Anisa Ali Hassan, a fellow student, embodies resilience. “I don’t like staying at home. Education is important. Staying at home will not bring you anything. Get an education for yourselves—it will help your family and your future.”

Principal Maano underscores another significant hurdle: early marriage. “When a girl is educated, she benefits herself, her family, her parents, and the entire country. An educated girl represents an educated whole society. If a girl receives an education, she influences the entire community.”

This dream, however, is often derailed when young women drop out of school due to early marriages that end in divorce or abandonment, thrusting them into single parenthood and isolation. Yet, Principal Maano offers a beacon of hope. “Even if a man once deceived you into early marriage, and now you have one or two children and have been left alone—you can still learn.” Her words ring true: “No one is too old to learn. Education is not about age; it’s about your desire. Education is open and free for you. Come to Abdalla Deerow School—we welcome and support every girl who wants to learn.”

In the shadows of adversity, Abdalla Deerow School stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of girls yearning for knowledge, fueled by the belief that education can reshape futures—one lesson at a time.

Edited By Ali Musa, Axadle Times International–Monitoring.