Why back to school looks different for children in crisis 

While children around the world prepare for the start of a new school year, children caught in conflict and other crises may be facing any number of obstacles. 

In places impacted by climate-related disasters, classrooms and other school infrastructure may be damaged or destroyed. Perhaps the route to school has become unsafe. Maybe the family can no longer afford basic school supplies. Some kids face exclusion and discrimination due to a disability, gender or language. In other cases, a lack of well-trained teachers may limit learning opportunities. 

Economic pressures can push families to negative coping strategies such as sending children to work instead of school or into a child marriage. Older siblings sometimes must stay home to care for younger children.

Many of the barriers to education overlap, making it difficult for children to attend classes consistently or even enroll. As a result, they fail to build foundational skills and future opportunities become limited. 

Education access is a right, not a privilege. It is a critical part of childhood that sets children up for future success. Going to school helps develop critical life skills while connecting with peers and building friendships.

UNICEF works to remove barriers to education through emergency support, local partnerships and system strengthening. The goal is to ensure that every child, no matter their background or circumstances, can access quality learning opportunities, return to school after crises and continue learning through secondary education.