Spectrum Centre
by Rob Smith

Purchased in May 2001, the former Irish Centre has now been refurbished and reopened by the Yemeni Refugee Organisation (YRO). “The Spectrum Centre now provides education, integration, training and employment,” explained Mohamed Al-Afif.

The centre has one of the biggest IT suites in Burngreave and can boast the best in IT and education training. With over £30,000 worth of new computer technology the centre is linked to the internet with their broadband network supplied by BITPart. In October last year Spectrum signed a partnership contract with Sheffield College to provide accredited courses in English as a second language (ESOL), information technology and sewing.

The Yemeni Refugee Organisation have provided this facility to help educate asylum seekers and refugees. “We have a firm contract with social services to provide food, accommodation as well as education,” added Mohamed.

I spoke to English teacher Margaret Gibson, who is also the co-ordinator of the Yemeni Women’s Project, that moved into the centre in March 2003.

“We teach the women ESOL to pre-entry and entry level,” explained Margaret, “And now that we have a foundation here at the centre, it has helped things to become more structured. We also do sewing classes and clothes making. In the near future this will include art and more activities for women.”

Sagr Ali Saleh is the centre’s newly appointed admin worker who, having been a YRO volunteer for three years, is proud to be working for this newly established centre. “I think the Spectrum is a good development for Burngreave.”

I also spoke to the project manager Adel Hassan who explained, “This unique project is here to serve all the people of Burngreave and surrounding area regardless of race, colour, sexuality, or religion. We’re open to everyone.”