On the inaugural day of Burkina Faso’s new academic year, UNICEF issues a warning that a staggering 1 in 4 schools, totalling 6,149, remains closed due to ongoing violence and insecurity in various parts of the country. This dire situation has left an estimated one million children out of school, exposing them to multiple threats in the process.
More than 31,000 teachers and over one million children are grappling with the reality that returning to their classrooms poses significant safety risks. The prevailing violence has forced at least 230 schools to transform into temporary shelters, accommodating over 52,000 internally displaced persons. This exacerbates the challenges faced by thousands of children in accessing education.
John Agbor, UNICEF Representative in Burkina Faso, expresses deep concern, stating, “Having so many children still unable to return to school due to violence and insecurity, and so many schools closed, is very upsetting. We need to continue our work and ensure every child in Burkina Faso can access education and fulfil their dreams in peace and safety.”
Despite the pervasive insecurity leading to the immediate closure of schools in conflict hotspots, more than 3.8 million girls and boys are resolute in resuming their education. In collaboration with UNICEF and other partners, the Ministry of National Education, Literacy and Promotion of National Languages has intensified efforts to bring children back into classrooms, particularly in regions most affected by the security crisis.
In 2023 alone, UNICEF, alongside partners, has supported initiatives facilitating access to education for 763,000 children through various programs. This includes formal education, accelerated schooling strategies, vocational training, an education by radio program, and the distribution of essential school kits and supplies. Teacher training and support for new schools to implement “Quality Child-Friendly School” standards and the Safe School approach are also part of these efforts.
Despite commendable efforts, Burkina Faso grapples with a humanitarian crisis, with around 5.5 million people requiring assistance, including 3.2 million children caught up in the conflict. Over 2 million people have been displaced due to violence, with children constituting 58% of this displaced population.
As the crisis continues, challenges persist, and resources dwindle. UNICEF’s 2023 Humanitarian Action for Children Appeal outlines a need for $226.7 million to sustain life-saving services for children and vulnerable populations. Unfortunately, only 13% of the required funds have been allocated to date. Urgent action and international support are imperative to address this education and humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso.
