Established in 2010, “MMKN” was founded with a vision to transform education and inspire responsible citizenship through inclusive and innovative educational practices.

Over the years, MMKN has successfully built a model that not only addresses education gaps, but also fosters a sense of social responsibility and community support. By focusing on public school students, the organization has created a ripple effect of positive change across Lebanon’s education sector. In this interview, Ghada Feghali, Chairperson of MMKN, outlines the main actions they have taken during the 2024 war in Lebanon.

About MMKN

With customized teaching materials and free-of-charge educational programs, MMKN bridges the gap between public and private schools, giving underserved students opportunities for success. “We primarily target students in grades 8 and 9 —critical years in the public education system where dropout rates are alarmingly high” explains Feghali.

To address this issue, the organization enlists volunteer university students to support younger learners by teaching them subjects like math, physics, chemistry and  Biology, through online and in-person learning.

Adapting to Crisis

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought education systems to a halt, MMKN quickly adapted to ensure learning continued uninterrupted. Utilizing WhatsApp, the team delivered reinforcement classes in many subjects, allowing students to keep up with their education despite the limitations of remote learning.

The organization’s ability to innovate and remain agile has been a cornerstone of its success. This was particularly evident in their response to the 2024 Israeli escalation, when MMKN became a beacon of hope for displaced students and their families.

“When we saw the number of displaced students out of schools, we simply had to act” outlines Feghali. Therefore, in addition to their usual support for grades 8 and 9, MMKN launched an in-person educational initiative at Dhour Choueir School, focusing on educating displaced children in grades 1–6.

Twelve volunteers, who were themselves displaced, were trained in collaboration with Lebanon Resist in classroom management, lesson planning, and ice-breaking techniques to lead the program. For three days a week, from 3 PM to 6 PM, these volunteers taught subjects like Math, English, and Arabic, ensuring that children in shelters regained a sense of normalcy.

MMKN’s approach went beyond academics, as the team organized workshops and activities designed to uplift children’s spirits and address psychosocial needs in collaboration with AUB and LAU volunteering students. Displaced children participated in interactive sessions such as drawing and coloring, planting and gardening, chocolate-making, which brought joy during difficult times. By providing stationery, backpacks, and other school supplies, MMKN ensured that children had all the tools they needed to engage fully in their learning.

Building Stronger Communities

MMKN’s impact extended beyond the classroom, as they partnered with organizations such as the LAU psychology department to offer psychosocial support to displaced students and families alike. The organization introduced sessions on managing anxiety, to equip displaced chidlren with practical tools to manage their stress. MMKN also emphasized community-building activities, such as wool-knitting for the elderly, street cleaning, and creative sessions aimed at fostering connection and resilience.

As families began to stabilize following the war, MMKN resumed its core programs. “By November 4, we had restarted our grade 8–9 initiatives, prioritizing students enrolled in public schools who had been unable to follow up on their studies due to closures” affirms Feghali.

A Legacy of Success

Since its inception, MMKN has reached over 21,000 students, engaged 3,100 volunteers, and achieved a remarkable 96% success rate on student examinations.  MMKN’s ability to integrate displaced volunteers, provide psychosocial support, and deliver effective educational programs sets it apart as a leader in crisis response and education reform. With strong partnerships, creativity, and a deep understanding of community needs, MMKN has transformed challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.

As MMKN continues its journey, its mission remains clear: to transform education, bridge gaps, and empower communities. By inspiring students, training volunteers, and fostering hope during the most challenging times, MMKN is not just shaping individual lives but also building a brighter and more inclusive future for generations to come.

How you can support MMKN

• Whish Money: +961 3 797 000
• OMT or Western Union: Ghada Rafka
• Donate online: https://fundahope.com/en/fundraisers/nada-kadri-fund-for-education 
• For volunteering: MMKN Volunteer Application (Fall 2024)

Tala Nassif

Tala Nassif holds a BA in Economics from the American University of Beirut and an MSc in Development Studies – Labour, Activism, and Global Commodity Chains – from SOAS University of London. Specialized in international development and economic empowerment, Tala currently serves as a Senior Research Assistant at the Asfari Institute for Civil Society and Citizenship at AUB.