South Sudan is said to suffer from the highest proportion of children deprived of education in conflict ridden countries. Over 331 schools have been closed, damaged or occupied.
Statistics reveal that, only one in ten children completes primary school while 93 percent of secondary school age children have been affected. The United Nations Children’s agency now puts the total number of children out of school, at 1. 8million.
UNICEF together with the government of South Sudan has embarked on a campaign to support children back into education. They have been able to reach more than 370,000 children. They plan to reach some 600,000 more
“To provide access to learning opportunities for more than half a million children and adolescents between the ages of three and 18, UNICEF and partners will require about 75 million dollars. The funds will be used to provide learning facilities and education materials to the newly enrolled children in school but also to continue educational services to children in conflict affected areas.”Tizie Maphalala, UNICEF Education Manager
Aid agencies warn that extensive gaps in education may contribute to long term economic and social crisis
