As we approach the new school year, many parents in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are asking the same question: “Will my kids go back to school at all this year?” As families face this uncertainty along with severe economic challenges, SAT-7 ACADEMY is a trusted resource that ensures no child need be left behind.

As many children around the world prepare to go back to school, millions of children in the Middle East and North Africa are out of education. Rita El-Mounayer shares how SAT-7 ACADEMY is helping to solve this problem.

In the Middle East, a child who turns on the television may be exposed to violence, intolerance, or even radicalisation. In contrast, SAT-7’s children’s programs are a haven for young viewers. By teaching positive, Christ-centred values, these shows are helping ensure a better future for the region.

As well as enabling millions of children to learn in homes and informal refugee settlements, SAT-7 ACADEMY is making a difference in classrooms. The channel will soon be used in two very different educational settings in Lebanon: the Cultural Heritage and Interactive Learning Development (CHILD) Centre for refugees, and a local private school.

The recently launched Cultural Heritage and Interactive Learning Development (CHILD) Centre is an alternative learning facility for Syrian refugee children without other access to education. The students are making remarkable progress, with children who were broken, traumatised, and fearful becoming happy, thriving learners.

Roy Saab has been a consultant for SAT-7 ACADEMY since its early stages of development. He is an experienced educator and curriculum developer, currently directing an Education in Emergencies project in Lebanon. Roy explains the channel’s potential and its role in the future of education across the Arab World.

Alongside ACADEMY Channel Manager, Juliana Sfeir, colleague George Makeen is one of the driving forces behind SAT-7’s vision to help meet the educational needs of families in the Middle East.