Introducing Amala High School Diploma Student: Asim

“Before Amala Education, I lost hope, I lost everything. There was no work as a refugee here, and no opportunities for study. But Amala Education gave me hope and the power to be passionate.” - Asim

When the War in Darfur began in 2003, Asim never imagined that the conflict would one day force him out of his home. But in 2007, he and his family had no choice but to flee to a displaced camp in Sudan. Unable to continue his schooling, Asim spent his time volunteering with organisations such as the World Food Programme and Save the Children. After seven years at the camp, as it became clear that he would not be returning to Darfur any time soon, he made the difficult decision to leave his family for Jordan in search of more opportunities. 

Upon arriving in Jordan, Asim started taking English classes at the Jesuit Refugee Service. With plenty of time on his hands, he also began taking advantage of online courses; he studied anything that interested him, from psychology to computer skills. 

Although Asim’s love for learning kept him motivated, as time went by and the prospects of returning home seemed to fade, he inevitably began to lose hope. It was clear that his nationality significantly reduced the number of refugee support services available to him. Whenever an opportunity, such as a scholarship program, caught Asim’s attention, he was disappointed to learn that only applicants of certain nationalities, such as Syrians and Iraqis, were considered. 

When Asim learned of the Amala High School Diploma, he applied without hesitation. With dreams of studying law and working in crisis relief, he was optimistic that it would be the “perfect programme” for him. 

While securing a pathway to higher education remains a priority for Asim, the course is helping him recognise the potential he already holds to create positive change. “As a refugee, every day, I am thinking about how I can do something, but I didn’t know how I could make peace in the community. Amala is teaching me how I can start my own projects.” Asim also values the relationships he has built through the programme, especially with fellow Sudanese students, with whom he can bond over shared experiences and discuss the situation in Sudan. 

When asked whether he would recommend the programme to others, Asim explained that he believes the courses could benefit young Jordanians, not just refugees. “I am very thankful for Amala. I hope that more people join the Amala programme. It is a programme that helps people learn how they can help themselves.”