Research conducted in Zarqa indicates that the majority of violence experienced by children occurs within the home, though schools also face significant challenges. Mahmoud Yaseen, a biology teacher with extensive experience at a local school, has witnessed these consequences firsthand. He expressed frustration regarding the high levels of insecurity in his neighborhood, which motivated him to collaborate with NAYA on a project titled “We Are With You.” This initiative integrates psychosocial support with education on gender-based violence for students aged 12 to 15, an age group where conflicts often escalate but where attitudes can still be positively influenced.
Classroom Strategies and Authority
Yaseen works alongside other educators to provide concrete tools for managing conflicts and addressing violent behavior among pupils. He recounted the case of a boy who reacted aggressively following his parents’ divorce. Through structured care and targeted school assignments, Yaseen attempted to support the student. He emphasized that authority in the classroom should stem from knowledge and understanding rather than force. While national programs under the Ministry of Education, in partnership with UNICEF, aim to monitor violence and create safer environments for students aged 13 to 16, Yaseen believes local efforts are equally critical. He noted that students are showing increased mutual respect and that teachers have improved their ability to handle problems.
A Vision for Sustainable Prevention
Yaseen’s ultimate goal is to secure more materials for violence prevention so teachers can utilize them effectively. He argues that this would enhance safety both inside classrooms and during commutes, while simultaneously raising educational quality. For him, the work extends beyond the school walls to creating a future where children grow up free from violence. He stated that continuing on this path could make a real difference for future generations.
Local actors stress that such initiatives are only one piece of a larger puzzle. Sustainable prevention requires long-term social investments that generate employment, engage civil society, and improve structural living conditions in the area. Rafat Badran, General Director of NAYA, agreed with this assessment. He clarified that the organization’s ambition is clear: he hopes there will never be a queue at NAYA again. His dream is for a day when his organization no longer exists, signaling that they have succeeded in their mission to halt violence in Zarqa.
This report was produced by the HuMedia newsroom.
