Introduction
Education is often associated with reading, writing, and arithmetic. However, for children living in conflict-affected and crisis environments, education plays a far more critical role. Education Cannot Wait (ECW)—the UN global fund dedicated to education in emergencies—underscores that education is not merely about academic achievement. Instead, its reports highlight that education must create a protective environment that ensures the holistic development of every child, especially those who are hardest to reach. This approach helps to mitigate the trauma and instability these children face, providing them with stability and hope for a better future. By focusing on the broader aspects of education, we can support their overall well-being and foster resilience in the face of adversity.
The Education Crisis: Millions of Dreams at Stake
According to the new ECW Annual Results Report, there are currently 78.2 million children in conflict-affected areas who do not have access to education. An additional 190 million children receive some form of education but lack basic literacy and numeracy skills. These staggering numbers highlight the depth of the global education crisis. ECW Director Yasmine Sherif notes that this crisis is not just about missing out on reading and math; it is about denying children the opportunity to develop to their full potential. Education is a vital tool for mental health support, emotional resilience, and future stability, making it an essential aspect of humanitarian response.
The situation is particularly dire for girls. Many of these children live in environments where gender-based discrimination is rampant, and educational opportunities are limited. In some cases, cultural and societal norms prevent girls from attending school. In others, the dangers of traveling to and from school or the risk of gender-based violence keep girls at home. For these reasons, Sherif’s statement that education must create a protective environment is particularly poignant. Providing access to education for girls in crisis areas does more than teach them to read and write; it empowers them to break cycles of poverty, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
A Global Commitment: The Sustainable Development Goals and Education
The international community has made significant commitments to ensure that every child has access to quality education. Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) aims to provide inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all by 2030. Additionally, various human rights conventions assert the right to education as fundamental, even in the face of conflict, disaster, or displacement. Yet, as Sherif aptly puts it, “We have promises to keep and miles to go before we sleep.”
The annual report’s title reflects the daunting challenges ahead. To meet these promises, a multi-faceted approach is needed that goes beyond traditional education models. This approach must be adaptable to the specific needs of children in crisis situations, ensuring not just access to classrooms but also the provision of psychosocial support, protection against violence, and the engagement of communities in creating safe learning environments.
ECW’s Impact: Reaching the World’s Most Vulnerable Children
In 2021 alone, ECW’s initiatives reached 3.7 million children and adolescents in some of the most dangerous and neglected regions of the world. These efforts spanned various countries, from militia-controlled areas in the Central African Republic to war-torn regions in Syria and Mali. In Afghanistan, despite the severe restrictions imposed since the Taliban takeover, ECW programs have continued to operate, delivering education to children and young people who might otherwise be left behind. ECW’s partners, such as the Agha Khan Foundation and the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, have been instrumental in maintaining educational services, highlighting the importance of local partnerships and community-based solutions.
Sherif’s insights into the Afghan situation reveal a nuanced understanding of the local context. While the international community has raised concerns about the Taliban’s restrictions on girls’ education, Sherif indicates that there are factions within the Taliban who support secondary education for girls. This nuanced approach underlines the importance of engaging with all stakeholders, even those who may be perceived as adversarial, to achieve progress in complex environments.
#222MillionDreams: A Campaign for Change
Education Cannot Wait’s #222MillionDreams campaign seeks to draw attention to the urgent needs of crisis-affected children and adolescents. This campaign highlights the fact that 222 million children worldwide are in desperate need of education support. The campaign aims to mobilize funding and political commitment to ensure that these children can continue to dream and aspire, despite the circumstances they find themselves in. The campaign is a call to action for governments, donors, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to collaborate and invest in education as a means of fostering resilience and stability.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach to Education
Sherif’s statements and the findings of the ECW report make it clear that education in emergencies cannot be limited to traditional subjects. It must encompass a holistic approach that addresses the emotional and psychological well-being of children. Schools in crisis settings must become sanctuaries where children feel safe, supported, and understood. This includes integrating mental health services, providing life skills training, and promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
The role of education as a protective factor cannot be overstated. In conflict and disaster scenarios, schools often become one of the few places where children can receive regular meals, medical attention, and protection from violence. They offer a semblance of normalcy and routine in otherwise chaotic environments. Moreover, educated children are better equipped to recognize and avoid the dangers of landmines, recruitment by armed groups, and exploitation. By providing a safe space, education helps shield children from the immediate and long-term impacts of crises.
Investing in the Future: The Case for Sustainable Funding
Sustainable and long-term funding is essential for the success of education initiatives in crisis-affected areas. The billion-dollar fund of ECW is a significant step forward, but the needs far outstrip the available resources. Governments, international organizations, and the private sector must step up to bridge the funding gap. Investing in education in emergencies is not only a moral imperative but also an investment in global peace and security. Educated individuals are more likely to contribute to economic growth, participate in democratic processes, and advocate for human rights, creating a ripple effect that benefits society as a whole.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
The challenges are immense, but so are the opportunities to make a difference. The findings of the ECW report and the insights shared by Yasmine Sherif call for a collective effort to prioritize education as a key component of humanitarian response. The international community must not only fulfill its promises but must also innovate and adapt to meet the unique needs of children in crisis settings. As we look towards the future, the goal should be to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born or what circumstances they face, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment.
Conclusion
Addressing the educational needs of children in crisis situations is a multifaceted challenge that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. For millions affected by conflict, disaster, and displacement, education must provide more than just academic instruction—it must offer a safe haven and a foundation for rebuilding their lives. Ensuring that these children receive not only access to schooling but also a supportive and nurturing environment is crucial for their development and future prospects. To achieve this, global efforts must focus on creating inclusive and resilient education systems that cater to the unique needs of crisis-affected children. By prioritizing holistic and protective educational approaches, we can help transform the lives of these vulnerable populations and move closer to a world where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive.
