Badreldin’s path to higher education
Badreldin on graduation day with Amala Co-founder Mia
Badreldin is originally from the province of Darfur, Sudan. He discovered the Amala Global Secondary Diploma (GSD) through Facebook, and became part of the pioneering cohort of what was then the Amala High School Diploma, in Amman, Jordan. Badreldin, who is now studying for a BA in Sustainable Development, shares his experience of Amala and how participating in the GSD opened up pathways into further education:
The programme has been incredibly impactful for me. Amala offers a diverse range of courses such as peacebuilding, social entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership, which are crucial for young people looking to make a positive difference in the world. The opportunity to engage seriously with these courses has allowed me to learn and grow in ways I never imagined.
One of the most significant areas of growth for me was in conducting research and discerning between reliable and unreliable sources. This skill has been crucial, not only in my academic pursuits but also in my everyday life.
“My experience with the programme has been incredibly impactful, shaping my academic, professional, and personal growth in numerous ways.”
Badreldin with project colleagues at the learning centre in Amman
During my time at Amala, the highlights included hands-on tasks, learning effective research methods, and engaging in stimulating class discussions and feedback sessions. Amala played a significant role in enabling me to access both my high school diploma and a diploma in Social Work. These qualifications opened doors for me, including securing scholarships like the one from Jesuit Worldwide Learning, which supported my Social Work Diploma, and contributing to my pursuit of a BA in Sustainable Development.
Furthermore, my time at Amala encouraged me to pursue additional learning opportunities. I enrolled in a Microsoft 365 course offered by Coursera, which expanded my proficiency with essential software tools and enhanced my job performance.
Beyond academic and professional growth, my experience at Amala also inspired me to share my knowledge with others. I created a YouTube channel, where I share basic knowledge and experiences with a wider audience. This platform has allowed me to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
Completing my Bachelor's degree has been a fulfilling journey. Looking ahead, I plan to take the Duolingo English Test and apply for an MA in Education from the University of the People. While I’ve faced challenges with scholarships for this programme, I remain hopeful that Amala's support might help me achieve this goal. Additionally, I'm exploring opportunities for an MA in Social Work from Columbia University if they become available.
“Amala’s emphasis on practical learning and community engagement continues to inspire me to contribute positively to society and support others in their educational journeys.”
Badreldin speaking on graduation day, 2021
This interview is the fourth in our series on the first cohort of Amala Global Secondary Diploma students. To make sure you don’t miss out on future Amala alumni stories, follow us on social media and sign up to our newsletter.