By Muhammad Asif Riaz | Project Leader
Friends of Children,
As I write this report, BBC reports that a powerful earthquake killed at least 1,000 people and injured 1,500 in eastern Afghanistan, and many children feared dead in the disaster.
While food, shelter, and water remain mandatory requirements in such situations, they are seen as being insufficient, meeting only basic human needs, and having little effect on the restoration of dignity and even a less sense of purpose. Education is now clearly viewed as the "fourth pillar, alongside the pillars of nourishment, shelter, and health services (Norwegian Refugee Council et. al.1999: 26; Midttun, 2000a: 3–4; ICWAC, 2000: 9).
While providing and assisting with basic physiological needs is a noble act, it is impulsive and requires a strong channel for continuous aid. On the other hand, helping children with education in emergencies involves a lot of planning and patience for the results. During uncertain times, a school set up serves as a central platform for stability and predictability, not only for the child but their family's life, infusing a sense of emotional and social normalcy for all those associated with the institution. Schools also become channels of communication promoting messages on health, hygiene, and protection while teaching them much-needed new life skills (Anderson et al. 2006). Moreover, children in crisis, who have gained valuable knowledge and skills through quality education, are better prepared to contribute to rebuilding their own lives, communities, and broader social structures.
Global Education Campaign has been working for out-of-school children for the last two decades, primarily in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Global Education Campaign's "End illiteracy in Afghanistan" aims to provide quality literacy education to 4.2 million out-of-school children, vocational skills training, and income-generating opportunities to their parents. This integrated approach will improve literacy and contribute to the socio-economic development of the communities.
During the February 23 - June 23, 2022, period, I am pleased to share that 15714 students were assisted (list attached) with school starter kits under the "My Home – My School" (Khana e Ma – Maktab e Ma) initiative.
The average cost of reaching/enrolling a student is around USD 2.74, and the Global Education Campaign contributed USD 42585 during this period to reach out to the 15714 students.
We are reaching out to thousands of children who need education, and we need your help and generosity to reach out to more children. Join us in helping Afghan children receive a quality education during a crisis.
Thank you!
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