As we step into the new year - and mark the International Day of Education this January - let's look back and reflect on the wonderful education highlights you achieved in 2025.
Education doesn't just change one life. It transforms communities. See how your support and dedication helped create brighter futures for children and adolescents around the world.
Breaking down barriers in Pakistan
In Pakistan, children with disabilities can face significant challenges: they're often isolated, experience social stigma and are unable to claim the same rights as their able-bodied peers. An estimated 96% of them are out of school, unable to get the education they deserve.
Sana* was one such case. She was just eight years old when she developed a debilitating foot disease, which made even the simplest steps a struggle. While her friends were playing football, tennis and running around, Sana watched from the side lines, unable to join in the fun. Because of her condition, Sana also struggled with the stairs in her school and had no choice but to drop out.
With the help of VSO volunteers and supporters, Sana received a walking frame, giving her the chance to walk, return to the classroom and dream of a brighter future. "I'm happy. We learnt a lot here, and the teachers teacher very well. I love reading because it's my passion to learn and explore new things through books. When I complete my school studies and I'm older, my passion is to become a doctor," Sana tells us.
Transforming education, one game a time
In Rwanda, too many children still repeat the first year of primary school because of poor quality education. Play is how children learn and develop, yet play-based learning is often overlooked in schools. But thanks to your support and commitment, VSO volunteers like Diane have championed play as a tool for promoting creative, engaged and resilient learners.
Diane volunteered as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator and worked with teachers like Olivier devising learning plans for students with additional needs. She also made lessons more engaging and accessible. "I showed Olivier games, songs and role-play activity ideas that include all the children together." Diane also introduced creative corners in the classroom, which are filled with puppets, puzzles, dolls and other materials that foster creativity.
In addition, VSO provided practical resources like mats, toys and books.
"I've seen shy children come out of their shell, those with additional needs light up as they learn alongside their classmates, and students with disabilities returning to school after dropping out. It's been a joy to witness, and I can't thank you enough for making it possible," says Diane.
One such child is Joshua*, who is five years old.
Before Diane's help, I was shy and I didn't know how to draw. I didn't like to study or go to school because there no toys. I just had to sit and listen. Now my teacher Olivier gives us things to play with. He also helps me read, write and spell, " Joshua tells us.
Opening doors to safety, education and brighter future in Uganda
In Uganda's poorest region, Karamoja, you helped girls whose education was cut short because of teenage pregnancies return to the classroom. You also helped hundreds of girls go to school for the first time. Girls who were told education wasn't for them and that they were to be married off a young age. The reality is one that VSO volunteer Alfred, knows all too well.
"Girls are still valued primarily for marriage. Parents prioritise bride price, which can be as high as 100 cows. Some are even chased by boys who attempt to abduct them for marriage. Whenever I meet a girl who has dropped out or been forced to marry, it pains me deeply. I know her dreams have been cut short before she ever had a chance," Alfred says.
Upset by what he had seen and fuelled by a deep belief in the power of education, Alfred decided to draw on his 16 years of teaching experience to become a VSO education volunteer. In his role he is committed to helping vulnerable children, especially adolescent girls, access education, feel safe, and thrive in school.
Emily is one such girl that Alfred has supported. Emily was forced into child marriage when she was just 15 years old and was forced to drop out of school. Her dreams of an education seemed like a distant future.
Thanks to Alfred and her teacher Elijah, everything turned around for Emily and she returned to school against all odds. When they found out where Emily was they persuaded her to return. She came back to school pregnant, and rejoined school. She even delivered her baby while still in school, and the headmistress, Faith, took her to hospital. Afterwards, she returned with her son, Shedi*, and continued her studies.
"My teachers, who are trained by Alfred, a VSO volunteer, have made a huge difference in my life. They taught me how to care take of my baby and myself. They also helped me understand my rights to education, to health and to a better future," Emily tells us.
In addition, Alfred trained teachers in child-centred methods, helped them with curriculum development, and provided learning materials to make lessons more engaging.
"I also work closely with school management committees, parents, and community leaders to help children return to school and remain there," Alfred explains.
Working closely with teachers has allowed me to see remarkable transformations in children like Emily, who is now thriving in secondary education. Volunteering is my passion. It is priceless service from the heart," Alfred tells us.
A heartfelt thanks to all our volunteers and supporters all around the world for making 2025 such a great year! We couldn't have done it without your support. You can help more VSO volunteers continue their life-changing work in 2026 by making a donation. Thank you.
*Pseudonyms have been used to protect the identities of those mentioned.
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