Community-Driven School Infrastructure in Qamqam Village Using a participatory community-based education planning (CBEP) consultation process, the Qamqam village community prioritized responding to the need for two classrooms, a school office, rehabilitation of one latrine, and repair of the chain-link fence with installation of a gate. This comes after a significant increase in student enrollment following initial support from the Stabilization Through Education Project (STEP) by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The community of Qamqam envisioned a community-driven infrastructure to support their growing school. An office is needed at Qamqam Primary School to provide teachers a shared space for meetings and to monitor school progress. Additional latrine facilities are essential, especially to encourage girls to attend and remain in school. Rehabilitation of the school fencing and installing a secure gate are critical for ensuring the safety of staff, students, and visitors. School perimeter fencing and gates serve as effective security measures, preventing unauthorized access and helping reduce truancy. Due to insecurity along the Kismayo-Jamaame corridor and fragile conditions in the area, the community jointly prioritized these safety needs. The Ministry of Education in Lower Jubaland, District Education Officers from both Kismayo and Jamame districts, and local administrations led the CBEP process and social cohesion meetings. These sessions took place at the Qamqam village center and included participation from surrounding villages, generating dialogue and building consensus around educational needs. The social cohesion meetings provided a platform for the Qamqam community to voice priorities and actively engage. The Qamqam community has shown strong interest in participating in the community-based education planning and matching grant sessions through the USAID-funded STEP, implemented by IOM in partnership with Creative Associates’ Bar ama Baro program. STEP aims to strengthen government-led, community-driven expansion of access to quality education for out-of-school children and youth and to build local institutions. The CBEP supports communities through Community Education Committees (CECs) to mobilize resources for their identified priorities. The community prioritized piloting the matching grant for the construction of the school perimeter wall and fencing around the compound, including the main entrance gates. Secure fencing significantly reduces the chance of unauthorized access and helps the school administration control entry and exit, protecting students and staff and reducing truancy during breaks. The matching grant ratio is 1:8, with the community expected to contribute $5,000 and STEP matching $40,000. The total cost of the project is $45,000. Thank you for contributing to promoting community engagement and resilience around education, and for fostering partnerships with government at all levels to establish a safe and secure perimeter for Qamqam Primary School.

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