Promoting school readiness in Ethiopia

Due to civil unrest, funds were reallocated during the last year of the programme to ensure continuity and sustainability in Early Childhood Development and Accelerated School Readiness (ASR).

The programme started in 2017 and ran until July 2021. It was adapted as a result of the civil unrest that erupted in November 2020.

• Parental education and involvement: 4,387 teachers and caregivers were trained on parental education, community engagement, and resource mobilization for Early Childhood Education.

• Child-to-Child: 45,040 children benefited by becoming trainers or being trained, with elder children tutoring younger ones.

• Accelerated School Readiness 40,930 children benefited from this community-based programme.

• “O”-class: 104,367 children participated in this one-year pre-primary class which is attached to the formal primary schools.

Due to the impact of COVID-19 and civil unrest-related violence after the conflict that erupted in November 2020 in Ethiopia, this project's 2021 funds were reallocated to provide emergency support in the Tigray region. The support ensured continuity and sustainability in early Childhood Development and Accelerated School Readiness. In addition, it provided the children psycho-social support and protection through a crisis-tested approach.

• 4,421 children enrolled in ASR school activities in 26 sites.

• 100 facilitators recruited and trained on ASR curriculum and play-based methodology.

• 52 ECD learning kits and 26 recreational kits procured.

• 80 temporary learning spaces with tents and washable mats were established.

UNICEF is a non-governmental organisation that advocates for the protection of children's rights, helps children across the world meet basic needs and expand their opportunities to reach their full potential. Re&Act and UNICEF have partnered to support innovative and sustainable projects for children since 2006.

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