Pogradec, Albania

Amaro Tan - a school for the less fortunate in Albania

Children from the Roma community face significant challenges in their daily lives. In Albania, they are among the most disadvantaged minorities. Many grow up in extreme poverty and encounter prejudice and exclusion from an early age. As a result, their chances of leading a self-determined and successful life are severely limited.

Amaro Tan
This is where the Amaro Tan program comes in—its name means “our place” in the Roma language. For around 94 children, it is much more than a school: it is a safe haven. Here, they receive protection, reliable care, and, most importantly, access to quality education—opportunities their families, often struggling to make ends meet, cannot provide on their own.

The children mainly come from Roma and Balkan Egyptian families, as well as from very low-income Albanian households. The program is carefully tailored to their needs. A kindergarten and a primary school up to grade 5 support them during their crucial early years and lay a strong foundation for their future.

Integration
A key next step is their integration into society. From grade 6 onwards, students transition to public schools or receive scholarships for further education. Yet Amaro Tan remains their anchor: in the afternoons, they can take part in a support program offering individualized homework assistance, tutoring, and a variety of recreational activities.

Social support
In addition, Amaro Tan provides comprehensive support for both children and their families, including school meals, health and hygiene programs, family counseling, and practical courses such as sewing or handicrafts. In times of crisis, families receive emergency assistance, including food supplies—especially during school holidays.

The results are visible: more and more young people are earning their high school diplomas or completing vocational training. Some have even successfully completed a college degree, thereby opening up new opportunities for their futures.