A Sense of Normality for Children
Education in Emergencies is a Lifeline for Children Living in Crises
As children head back to school around the country, there are an estimated 8 million children missing out on an education due to humanitarian crises. But through UNICEF and partners’ support, some children are getting the education they deserve, despite the challenges.
Take little Zayied, displaced due to the earlier conflict in the Tigray region, she is going to school. Zayied beams proudly when she says “My favorite subject is English and even though I am a girl, I want to be an engineer. I know I can do it if I keep up my studies.”
In South Omo located, in Southern Ethiopia region, 15-year-old Nyaguma is one of the many children and families displaced due to reoccurring drought and floods. But Nyaguma is determined to go to school. “For girls, it is important that we try to keep up with our learning. Education is the key to our future because it gives us more opportunities that will benefit us and our communities.”
In Benishangul-Gumuz region, children and their families have been displaced due to conflict. Mulu, a mother of 4, has been living in Metekele IDP camp but her children are getting an education. “I am so proud that my children are in school,” she says as she smiles proudly with her son Haile beside her. “He is so smart and makes my heart fill with joy when I see him paying attention in school. I know he will have a bright future ahead of him, despite living in a camp.”
In Somali region, children who have been displaced due to conflict can access an education in the host community of Qoloji. Ferha, 14-years-old loves going to school and being with her friends. “Some of us are displaced and some of the pupils live here, but we learn and laugh together,” she says. “I know this is not my real home, but this school makes me feel at home.”
With the generous funding from our donors, UNICEF, together with partners, have enabled access to educational opportunities for vulnerable children who have lived through conflict, climate induced shocks and displacement. Education in emergencies upholds a child’s fundamental right to an education.
