In 2009, Mona’s parents Fayza and Mohammed (both former teachers) founded the “Hassanein School” (named after Mona’s twin brothers, Hassan and Hussein, also known as the Siamese Sudanese twins) in Omdurman, Sudan’s second-largest city.
By establishing the Hassanein School on their property in a rather poor neighbourhood of Omdurman, Mona's parents wanted to make the best possible use of free space: A safe place for children in the community, where they could learn - and eat something.
The Hassanein School started with a nursery and the first grade of an elementary school. It counted 19 children (10 boys and 9 girls) and two teachers. In the following years, the school steadily grew: Each year, an additional grade was added and more teachers were hired.
When we (Mona and Raffael) got married in the courtyard of the Hassanein School in February 2013, it comprised two pre-school (nursery) classes and five primary school classes with a total of 72 children (38 boys and 34 girls) and 7 teachers.
On our wedding day we decided to set up a charity project to support the further growth and development of the Hassanein School.
Initiated by locals, rooted in the community
The Hassanein School is one hundred per cent Sudanese: Initiated and built by a Sudanese family, run by Sudanese teachers, rooted in the local community, and recognized and accepted by Sudanese authorities.
It is not a charity project imposed from outside, but a local institution shaped by the community it serves.
Why the Hassanein School matters
In Sudan, where millions of children are unable to access education due to poverty or conflict, every classroom is a lifeline.
In addition to education, the Hassanein School offers essential daily structure and serves as a place where children receive a meal - an important source of support for many families.
Our commitment and promise
We remain committed to the development and long-term stability of the Hassanein School.
We stand by our promise that your donations will be used entirely for the Hassanein School.
We continue to cover all costs for administration, communication and advertising.
A success story - thanks to your support
More than 15 years after its foundation, the Hassanein School still stands - despite economic crises, natural disasters, political unrests and wars.
In April 2023, the outbreak of the war in Sudan forced us to close our school. In September 2024, we were able to reopen it.
As of today, the Hassanein School is larger than ever before, counting 167 pupils (roughly equal numbers of girls and boys), 14 teachers and a caretaker.
This success story wouldn’t have been possible without your support.
Thank you!
