The education sector in Syria faces unprecedented challenges. Years of conflict and the recent earthquake in 2023 have left schools damaged, and students displaced. This emphasizes the urgent need for emergency education services to support up to 7.1 million school-aged children and teachers, including 10% of children with disabilities. Source: Guidance on Strengthening Disability Inclusion in Humanitarian Response Plans (unicef.org)
With over 2.4 million children out of school across the country, the situation in northern Syria is particularly dire, where 1 million children are missing out on their education, many of these children, particularly orphans, girls, and children with disabilities, are at risk of never returning to school. Without access to education, they face increased risks of exploitation, child labor, and other gender protection challenges.
The barriers are multifaceted. Economic hardship forces families to prioritize survival over schooling, as they struggle with indirect costs like supplies and transportation. Meanwhile, overcrowded classrooms, damaged facilities, and a lack of qualified teachers further exacerbate the crisis. The safety of children and educators is also a significant concern, with schools regularly targeted by attacks or repurposed as shelters.
Through this Education Model, we aim to provide equal opportunities for learning and growth for orphans and the most vulnerable children, giving them the chance to build a brighter future, and engage families in the educational process to foster a supportive home environment bridging school and home life, in addition to equipping teachers with the skills to be effective educators and advocates for all children.
