A Bag, A Dream: Saudatu Aliyu

Saudatu Aliyu is 14, the second of seven children in a family from Wurno LGA, Sokoto State. Until recently only her eldest sibling had attended school. She spent her days helping at the market and learning a few words from her brother.

When she heard about the non-formal learning centre, she pleaded with her father:

"Baba, it is free."

Inspired by the doctors she had seen healing sick children, Saudatu wants to become a doctor. The first days were hard as she struggled with reading and writing, but her determination never wavered. She cherishes her school bag, a symbol of belonging.

"Ilmi da karatu yana daɗi." (Education is sweet.)

Saudatu believes girls should not be limited to selling foodstuffs or staying at home, and calls on parents to send their daughters to school.

"Ilmi shi ne hasken rayuwa." (Education is the light of life.)

Made possible by EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid in partnership with UNICEF, MOBSE, SAME, SUBEB and LHI. From the ABEP Project Magazine.