Education minister inaugurates new schools in southern Jordan Valley

AMMAN — Minister of Education Azmi Mahafzah on Tuesday attended the opening of the newly constructed buildings of Umm Al Husheim Primary Mixed School and Al Haditha Secondary School for Girls in the southern Jordan Valley.

The two projects were funded by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) as part of the Knowledge Economy Project, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

Mahafzah praised the efforts of all parties involved in the completion of these schools, which are designed to enhance students’ knowledge and provide a healthy, social and stimulating educational environment.

The new schools incorporate the role of the local community in the educational process and provide a safe and appropriate environment for the integration of students with disabilities, allowing them to become active citizens and receive an appropriate education alongside their peers in classrooms tailored to their needs. The schools also provide a supportive environment for students with learning difficulties, the minister said.

Mahafzah commended USAID for its support in establishing these modern facilities, which are equipped to meet the diverse needs of students at different levels and activities. He also expressed appreciation for USAID’s continued efforts in the operation and maintenance of these schools and its ongoing support for similar programmes and projects.

He also cited several initiatives undertaken by the ministry in partnership with USAID, including the expansion of kindergarten enrolment, pre-service and in-service teacher training, and maintenance of school buildings, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

USAID Mission Director in Jordan Leslie Reed said that the inauguration of these two schools reflects the strong cooperation between USAID and the Ministries of Education and Public Works and Housing. 

The USAID supports the Ministry of Education’s efforts to empower children and youth and contribute to a brighter and more prosperous future for them and their communities, Reed said, expressing her gratitude to the ministry for the fruitful cooperation in serving the students.

Mahafzah toured the facilities of the two schools, observing kindergarten and first-grade classes using modern learning strategies, the computer lab, and the Learning Difficulties and Inclusive Education room. 

He also took a first-hand look at the school’s recycling and soap-making projects, which are carried out in collaboration with the local community in the art workshop.