Tawakkol Karman Foundation announced the official opening of the Belqees Educational Complex in Taiz, southwest Yemen, on Sunday, October 6, 2024. The facility, built and fully funded by the foundation at a cost of one billion Yemeni riyals, is aimed at addressing the country’s ongoing education crisis.

The complex includes both primary and secondary schools, as well as the city's first dedicated school for the deaf. The project, which will serve around 4,000 students, was handed over to local education authorities in Taiz. It represents a critical step in the foundation’s efforts to support Yemen’s embattled education sector.

Constructed in response to community calls that had long been overlooked by local government, the complex offers a safe and well-equipped learning environment. It features 30 classrooms, two libraries, a computer lab, and three state-of-the-art science labs.

The school for the deaf is a standout addition, offering education from first grade through high school. It has been outfitted with essential resources, including science labs, computer labs, a library, and a full range of academic materials.

Since its inception, Tawakkol Karman Foundation has spearheaded dozens of impactful initiatives, including 35 education-related projects across several Yemeni governorates. Among these are two schools for the deaf in Marib and Taiz, ensuring that children in war-torn areas have access to learning opportunities.

Founded by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Tawakkol Karman, the foundation is dedicated to advancing human rights, education, and sustainable development in Yemen and beyond. Its broad efforts span education, health, economic empowerment, and humanitarian relief.