In a critical step towards addressing Ethiopia’s educational crisis, the United Nations Education Cannot Wait (ECW) has announced a new $5 million First Emergency Response grant. This brings the global fund’s total investments in the country to an impressive $93 million, highlighting its ongoing commitment to supporting children affected by conflict.
The announcement follows a high-level visit to the Tigray region, which is still recovering from a devastating three-year conflict that halted education for millions. ECW’s Executive Director, Yasmine Sherif, stressed the importance of providing children with safe educational environments, particularly in conflict-affected areas like Tigray.
In an exclusive interview with UN News, Sherif expressed deep concern about the risks facing children who are deprived of education. She warned that without access to the classroom, boys and girls are more vulnerable to forced recruitment, child marriage, and gender-based sexual violence. “The conflict has already robbed children of their childhoods, and we cannot afford to let them be further exploited. Education is not just a right—it is a protection mechanism,” she stated.
The new grant aims to rebuild educational infrastructure, supply essential learning materials, and support teachers and children in conflict-affected areas. Sherif highlighted that continued investment in education is essential not only for the immediate recovery of Tigray’s children but also for breaking the cycle of poverty and violence that often follows prolonged conflict.
Ethiopia’s efforts to rebuild its educational system, particularly in Tigray, are seen as vital to securing a better future for its children and ensuring long-term stability for the country.
