Action
UNICEF has constantly aimed to support policy development and capacity building of the education system in order to stimulate Roma children and those of other vulnerable communities to have access to education. It also promotes the development of a convergent policy and legal framework for Early Childhood Development and for the stimulation of access to ECD programmes for children and families, with a particular focus on families from the most vulnerable communities (Roma, isolated rural , and disadvantaged peri-urban communities). Likewise, it aims to build the capacity of schools and authorities to ensure that the rights to education of children from vulnerable communities is assured.
UNICEF promoted optimal and sustainable change at various levels in the following areas:
- Capacity building of Roma NGOs involved in child rights, child education, and protection;
- Overall policy framework – supported the development of local and central level strategies to stimulate access for Roma children; supported the development of innovative, base-line research to monitor the situation of Roma children;
- Availability and quality of services - developed educational day centres, provided training for Roma and other teachers working in Roma communities;
- Content of educational materials - supported literacy programmes and promoted the development of educational manuals and materials for Roma children;
- Socio-economic well-being of Roma children – supported projects aimed at eliminating early marriage and pregnancy, the participation of Roma children in public life, and the combating of child labour;
- Social awareness and combating discrimination - supported advocacy campaigns to promote equal chances and opportunities for Roma children, monitored segregation of Roma children in the education system, proposing plans for desegregation.
