UNHCR on how to improve education access for refugees

The education crisis facing refugee children is a global challenge that requires urgent attention and comprehensive solutions. According to the UNHCR, out of the 7.1 million school-age refugee children, approximately 3.7 million are out of school. This means that more than half of refugee children are missing out on education opportunities. At the primary level, only 63% of refugee children are enrolled in school, significantly lower than the global average of 91%. The transition from primary to secondary school is even more alarming, with less than half of refugee children continuing their education at the secondary level. The disparity between boys and girls accessing education is also a significant concern, with girls facing additional barriers such as cultural norms and gender inequality. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Millicent Mutuli, Director of the Regional Bureau for West and Central Africa at UNHCR, highlighted the challenges faced by refugee children in accessing education. Mutuli acknowledged that the availability of secondary schools is a major issue, with a lack of infrastructure and trained teachers hindering educational opportunities for refugee children. Cultural beliefs and societal norms also play a role in limiting girls' access to education, especially at the secondary level. Mutuli emphasized the importance of raising awareness among families about the benefits of education, particularly secondary education, for refugee children. While initiatives and programs are in place to support refugee education, more needs to be done to address policy issues, facilitate access to work permits, and secure funding for education programs. Mutuli highlighted the DAFI scholarship program funded by the government of Germany, which provides tertiary education scholarships for refugees, as a successful initiative that has benefited many refugee students. However, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to education and livelihood by 2030 remains a significant challenge. UNHCR has set a target of enrolling 15% of refugee learners in tertiary education by 2030, a goal that is currently at 5%. The road to reaching this target is long and demanding, especially in regions like Western and Central Africa where access to tertiary education for refugees is only at 1%. Despite the obstacles and the ambitious goals set by UNHCR, Mutuli expressed confidence in the organization's ability to tackle the education crisis facing refugee children. Through scholarship programs, advocacy efforts, and partnerships with governments and educational institutions, UNHCR is working tirelessly to improve access to quality education for refugees. The importance of education in empowering refugee children, providing them with skills and opportunities for a better future, cannot be overstated. With continued support and collaboration, UNHCR aims to bridge the education gap and ensure that every refugee child has the chance to fulfill their educational potential.