As Millions Flee, We Must Ensure Children’s Education Isn’t Forgotten
As bombs fall and refugees pour out of Ukraine, over 1.5 million children have already fled the conflict, seeking safety and shelter. While the world focuses on providing food, water, and shelter for the displaced, it’s crucial that we don’t overlook the educational needs of these children. War doesn’t just tear apart lives; it disrupts their futures, and education is often the first casualty.
Across the globe, from Syria to Afghanistan and Uganda, education is the first service to vanish in humanitarian crises. Displaced children often endure years without a proper education. But in these dire circumstances, why prioritize schooling? Because it offers a sense of stability and normalcy in the midst of chaos. It provides a routine, hope for the future, and also serves as a point for mental health support, counseling, and even distribution of essential services like food and healthcare.
In my conversations with displaced parents, from the Greek islands to Lebanon, the overwhelming priority for many once they find some stability is for their children to return to education. This not only offers them a lifeline but also a chance for the children to process trauma and begin to rebuild their lives.
