When learning opens new doors

In 2026, AVSI Foundation marks 40 years of partnership in Kenya (1986–2026). Among the six stories we have chosen to share for this anniversary, Mahat’s experience illustrates how opportunities for learning and professional development can open new pathways for people in refugee communities. From receiving training in early childhood education to progressing from a classroom teacher to a Curriculum Support Officer, his journey shows how investing in education professionals can strengthen their opportunities while contributing to better learning for children.

My name is Mahat Ismail Mohamed. I am a registered refugee living in Hagadera Camp, and I have seen how an opportunity to learn can open new doors.

I first arrived in Ifo Camp in 2006 after leaving home in search of safety and a better future for my family. In 2008, we moved to Dagahaley Camp before being transferred to Hagadera Camp.

When we arrived, everything was unfamiliar. Other refugees, community members and UNHCR welcomed and supported us. Like many families, we faced limited resources, challenges in education and uncertainty about the future. We supported one another and accepted the help available to us.

At the time, I was working as a teacher at Iftin Primary School.

I learned that AVSI Foundation was offering scholarships for teachers to pursue an Early Childhood Development and Education course. I applied and was fortunate to be selected. Through AVSI, I also received training in Competency-Based Curriculum and multi-grade teaching.

The Early Childhood Development Education course helped me understand child development, lesson planning, classroom management and child-centred teaching. I also learned how simple, locally available materials could be used to make learning more engaging.

At the time, I hoped the opportunity would make me a better teacher and help me progress in my career. I did not know how far it would take me.

The opportunity became an important step in my career.

From 2018 to 2022, I worked as a trained teacher at Iftin Primary School. In March 2023, I became a School Counsellor, a position I held until October 2024. Since November 2024, I have been working as a curriculum support officer.

Looking back, I can see how each position prepared me for the next. The experience also gave me greater confidence in working with children with different learning needs and in preparing and updating professional documents.

Working with children has taught me that every child is different.

Some children are shy and need encouragement before they feel comfortable participating.

I remember supporting one shy child through songs, play and small-group activities. Slowly, the child began to participate and interact more with others.

I also use stories, games, group work and local materials in my work with children. Simple activities can help create a classroom where children feel comfortable learning and expressing themselves.

For me, this is one of the most important parts of my work: seeing a child become more confident and engaged in learning.

Education gives children and families hope, but there are still challenges in the refugee community.

Teachers often work with large classes and limited learning materials. Some children need additional support, while teachers have limited opportunities to upgrade their qualifications.

My experience has helped me continue supporting teachers and children despite these challenges.

It has also given me a sense of purpose. I can contribute to my community and encourage other refugees to make use of opportunities that can help them build their future.

Mahat’s journey shows how access to learning and professional development can create new pathways for people living in refugee communities. An opportunity to pursue Early Childhood Development Education training helped him strengthen his work with children and opened a path from classroom teaching to school counselling and, later, curriculum support.

Building on 40 years of experience in Kenya, AVSI remains committed to strengthening education opportunities for children, teachers and communities. Through training, partnerships and support for education professionals, AVSI works to improve learning quality, address diverse learner needs and create inclusive environments where children can excel.

Looking ahead, AVSI will continue to invest in people, strengthen local capacities and build pathways for learning, professional development and employment, contributing to stronger education systems and more resilient communities even in emergency contexts.

To discover the other stories collected for the 40th anniversary of AVSI in Kenya, visit the dedicated page.