A Learning Journey Restored

For as long as he could remember, Sima dreamed of learning, succeeding in school, and building a future where he could help others. Yet as a child born with a hearing impairment in a rural village near Shashemene, pursuing that dream was far from easy. Communication barriers and limited access to inclusive educational support often left him struggling to keep pace with his studies. At home, financial hardship made those challenges even greater. As one of eight children, Sima's parents worked hard to provide for their family, but the additional support he needed for his education was often beyond their means.

The school he attended was located far from his home, making regular attendance difficult. Without learning materials, transportation, or specialized support, he frequently missed classes and spent much of his time in the village. Even when he was able to attend school, communication barriers made learning difficult. While his classmates advanced in their studies, Sima often felt left behind. He watched other students interact easily with teachers and friends while he struggled to follow lessons and express himself. The challenges affected not only his academic performance but also his confidence.

"There were times when I felt isolated," he says. "I often focused on what I could not do rather than on my strengths and abilities."

Despite these obstacles, Sima never lost his determination to learn. His family also remained committed to supporting him in any way they could.

"Our greatest wish was for him to continue his education and have better opportunities," his parents explain. "But it was painful to see him struggle and feel left behind."

A path toward inclusion

Everything began to change in mid-2025 when Sima was identified for support through the Shashemene Holistic Action for Sustainable Household Empowerment (SHASHE) Project implemented by SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia with support from SOS-Kinderdorf Schweiz. One of the most significant changes was his transfer to a school better equipped to support students with special educational needs. Teachers at the school had received training in inclusive education, including basic sign language, allowing them to communicate more effectively with students with hearing impairments. For the first time, Sima found himself in an environment where his needs were understood. In addition to attending a more inclusive school, he received transportation support and assistance with tutorial classes. These interventions removed many of the barriers that had previously prevented him from fully participating in his education.

Growing in confidence

The changes in Sima's life soon became visible. With improved communication in the classroom and access to tutorial support, his academic performance began to improve. He successfully passed an important 6th grade regional examination and advanced to his current grade level. More importantly, he started to feel included.

"I now have more friends and feel a greater sense of belonging at school," he says. "I no longer feel as isolated as I once did."

Today, he actively participates in lessons, asks questions when he needs help, and engages more comfortably with both teachers and classmates. At home, his family has noticed a remarkable transformation.

"Now, he attends school every day, performs better academically, and is more confident and engaged in his learning," his parents explain. "We see a child who is much more optimistic about his future."

His family remains one of his greatest sources of strength. Although he is the only deaf member of the household, his brothers have embraced learning basic sign language so they can communicate more effectively with him. Together they play games, spend time practicing signs, and create an environment where he feels accepted and included.

Dreaming beyond barriers

Today, Sima is no longer defined by the obstacles that once stood in his way. Instead, he is focused on the future, and his dream of becoming a doctor.

"By studying hard, I want to become a doctor so that I can help sick people and relieve their suffering," he says. "I want to use my education to support others and make a difference in my community."

For Sima, the support did more than improve access to education. It helped him recognize his abilities, strengthen his confidence, and envision a future filled with possibility. Today, he is not only pursuing his dream, but also proving that with the right support, determination can overcome even the most difficult barriers.

About the project

Sima's story reflects the impact of the SHASHE Project (2023–2025), which supports vulnerable children, young people, and caregivers to access protection, education, health services, and economic opportunities. During its first phase, the project directly reached 1,500 children, 100 young people, and more than 500 caregivers, while indirectly benefiting over 7,500 community members.

Building on these achievements, the project will continue through a second phase (2026–2028), expanding its support to help children and young people grow up safe, healthy, educated, and empowered, while strengthening families' ability to provide the care and opportunities they need to thrive.

*To respect the person's privacy, their real name has not been used