African refugees in Egypt face many barriers to proper education. Children often miss months or years of school as they flee conflicts in their own countries and make the trip to Egypt. Illiteracy and/or language differences create challenges among adults trying to navigate an already difficult job market.  Children often have limited access to Egyptian schools, or their parents keep them home because they fear for their safety.  In an effort to counteract these obstacles, Refuge Egypt runs education classes for people of all ages, operates a preschool in a suburb of Cairo and a primary education program on the premises of All Saints’ Cathedral.

Happy Child Pre-School:
It is our aim to provide an outlet for normal educational and personal development to deprived children of refugees, who are otherwise locked in houses or left under the precarious care of older siblings. All of our teachers are committed Christians with teaching experience. Our curriculum is a visual Bible based program that teaches basic English and Math skills, along with art and craft sessions. The teachers are progressively being trained in Montessori educational techniques. The preschool can host 45 children in there classes.   

Primary Education Program:
The primary education program provides comprehensive curriculum for up to 30 children ages 5 - 8 in English, in preparation for attendance at African Hope Learning Centre, St. Andrew’s Refugee Services, or other secondary schools. The education program uses a curriculum designed by the former Education Consultant to the Diocese, which uses teaching and learning techniques to encourage thinking and understanding, rather than memorization.

Adult Education:
English skills are a valuable asset to refugees, particularly those hoping for resettlement as well as for people seeking employment in Cairo. Classes are offered at a minimal cost and books are provided for free. Our ability to run these classes is dependent on the availability of volunteer teachers.