By Hindaty Traore, Girls’ Project Manager

As the rainy season sweeps across Mali, the Ministry of National Education has announced that the school year will begin on October 1. However, with continuous torrential rains and the destruction of schools in some areas, there is growing concern about whether classes will actually resume on this date.

The rains have brought floods and significant damage, raising doubts about the reopening of schools. In several parts of the country, families displaced by floods have taken shelter in schools after their homes were destroyed. In other areas, classrooms have been completely ruined by the rains. Fortunately, thanks to the quality construction of Mali Rising schools, our schools have withstood the severe weather conditions and currently are not housing flood refugees.

Djenebou, a student at Ross and Marilou Moser Middle School in Nieguenkoro, is confident about her school’s resilience. She believes that Mali Rising has built strong, durable schools where students can learn in peace. She’s eager to return to class, as she is preparing to take her DEF (Diplôme d’Études Fondamentales) exam this year. Djenebou feels excited for the return of Mali Rising’s Girls’ Project and ready for the exam because she spent the holidays reviewing her lessons.

"I love the activities of Mali Rising’s Girls’ Project because they always give me courage and incredible determination. Thanks to the various project meetings, I have learned valuable strategies for succeeding in school, understanding lessons better, and developing a mindset of independence and perseverance," Djenebou shared.

"After my studies, I want to become a pediatrician to care for the children in my village. I’ve been spending the holidays in Bamako with my aunt, and I’ve noticed that many children here are healthy, whereas in my village, children are often sick. In Bamako, even when children fall ill, hospitals are easily accessible. That’s why I’ve decided to become a pediatrician and help the children in my village," she continued.

Despite her confidence, Djenebou is concerned that the flooding may prevent some of her friends from returning to school. "I’m afraid the floods could stop some girls from attending school this year because there’s a low-lying area near our village that becomes impassable during heavy rains," she explained.

We remain hopeful that conditions will improve by October 1, allowing for a smooth and timely start to the school year. Like Djenebou, we will stay positive and hold on to the hope of a successful opening day!