The first version of the “Reading Wikipedia in the Classroom” program was successfully implemented in Jordan on May 25, 2024. Following its launch, the program’s development gained momentum through collaborative partnerships. The initiative was initially proposed by Mohammed Hajeer during a Wikimedia Levant meeting on the 19th Arabic Wikipedia Day. Mervat Salman emerged as a key supporter, driving its implementation forward. To facilitate the program, I translated the teacher’s guide into Arabic, ensuring it met the needs of Arabic-speaking educators and updated previous versions into a standard Arabic format. Financial and logistical support from the Wikimedia Levant group further enabled the program’s launch.
Initial Challenges and Progress
The program faced significant hurdles, particularly in gaining access to teachers and convincing them to participate. While 25 teachers initially registered, only 10 actively participated, representing three different governorates in Jordan. Despite the modest attendance, encouragement from the Wikimedia Levant group and individuals like Melissa Guadalupe—who remarked, “It’s certainly commendable to start small and continue the growth from the learnings that proximity to teachers bring”—kept the momentum alive.
The participants’ reactions during the honoring ceremony on the 20th Arabic Wikipedia Day were particularly inspiring. Teachers expressed enthusiasm for contributing more to Wikipedia, even creating articles to mark the occasion. One teacher, in particular, displayed a keen interest in expanding the program to her school, Al-Durra Al-Sharifa School in Amman. With further support from Wikimedia Levant, preparations for a second session at this school were initiated. This event, scheduled for November 30, 2024, demonstrates the rapid progress between the first and second sessions. Additionally, I suggested engaging Miss Salam alSarayrah as a trainer for a program segment, aiming to strengthen the team and ensure continuity.
Scaling Up: Government Support and Future Goals
While planning the second session, I received a significant endorsement from the Ministry of Education in Jordan, where I am employed. They approved the program’s expansion into schools in Zarqa city, marking a pivotal moment in the program’s development. This governmental recognition not only validates the program but also paves the way for broader implementation.
In just under six months, the program has transformed from a small pilot into an initiative with national potential. This success is not solely due to individual efforts but to the collective belief and support from a dedicated community. Our vision is to institutionalize the program within the Ministry of Education, expand it to additional regions in Jordan, and empower teachers to become program ambassadors in their schools.
The journey has just begun, but the foundation has been laid for sustainable growth and lasting educational impact.
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