Overcoming Adversity to Bring Education to Every Region in Ethiopia
Hopes of children for education and a better future
Providing education for all children, regardless of their circumstances, is crucial for building a more equitable and sustainable world. In conflict-affected areas, disaster zones, and other challenging environments, ensuring access to education becomes even more imperative.
Education not only offers knowledge and skills but also serves as a beacon of hope and resilience amidst adversity. As we celebrate the Day of the African Child on 16 June 2024, with the theme ‘Providing Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now’, we acknowledge the hopes of children for learning, peace, and a better future.
Tigray region: Haddase, Zayied, Abrahaley, and Yonas (left to right) are now in school.
Due to the ongoing conflict in Tigray region, schools were closed, leaving children with no access to learning. However, now schools are reopening, and children are happy to resume their education.
Amhara region: Shemelako Primary School is a safe place for children affected by conflict in Dabat, Amhara region of Ethiopia.
With the support of UNICEF, children are attending catch up classes, receiving psychological support and life-skills training. The center also helps reunite separated or unaccompanied children with their family.
Afar region: Hawa (13) is a 5th-grade student at Boyena Primary School. The region
has experienced severe drought conditions which had profound impact on the population which in turn resulted in various social and economic challenges, including children dropping out of school due to lack of resources and even subject to child marriage.
“I am happy to come to school. My favorite subjects are the Afar language and Math. Due to the drought, sometimes we don’t have anything to eat. Some of my friends in our area do not go to school. Some of them have also dropped out. I am so lucky! I want to be a teacher when I grow up.”
Benishangul Gumuz region: Haile Mohammed (12) is happy learning in a classroom and wants to become a doctor when he finishes school. His mother Mulu Bezuneh (40) is overjoyed that after escaping internal instability, he is now attending school in a secure setting.
Sidama region: Nyaguma Nyawe, 14, is a student from South Omo, southern Ethiopia. When she grows up, she wants to become a doctor. She is really happy to be back to school after being displaced due to drought and flood.
Somali region: Abdisamad (14), an internally displaced child from Qoloji, in the Somali region, is enrolled in the Accelerated Learning Programme (SPEED School) and is actively learning to join the regular class.
“I love participating in the class. I enjoy interacting with my teachers and classmates. It’s fun and gives me confidence” shares Abdisamad.
Gambella region: Sixteen-year-old Kidist radiates enthusiasm as she walks through Tinshua Meti Secondary School in Gambella region. With big dreams and a strong passion for learning, Kidist shares, "I want to be a doctor to serve my community."
Oromia region: Children in Behima Primary School wave to the camera. While in school, they explore and make sense of the world around them. It also helps them develop their imagination and creativity.
In today's rapidly evolving world, education serves as the key that unlocks countless opportunities for children, empowering them to reach their full potential and become active contributors to society. UNICEF thanks all the partners would contribute to ensure quality education to children, wherever they are.
