School examinations in Sudan pose protection risk for children
23 December 2024Upcoming school examinations in Sudan pose huge protection risk for children as they move across conflict areas to sit the exams, says Plan International.
While the decision by Education authorities in Sudan to hold the Sudanese Certificate exams on December 28 is commendable, we are concerned this move may expose children, especially those in conflict affected areas, in gathering sites (internally displaced persons) and those children who fled to neighbouring countries as refugees, to safety and security risks as they try to access the examinations that are only being conducted in certain parts of the country.
“It is important that the planning and conduct of exams is inclusive to ensure all children, wherever they are in the country, are provided an opportunity to sit for their exams in a safe and dignified manner,” said Plan International Sudan Country Director Mohammed Qazilbash.
Educational needs of children in Sudan
The educational needs of children in Sudan are staggering, with 9.5 million children deprived of formal education due to the destruction of schools, lack of teachers, and the general collapse of the education system. UNICEF estimates that 17 out of 19 million school aged children in Sudan are not learning and only 20% of schools have reopened since April 2023.
Plan International urges the Sudanese authorities and all stakeholders to urgently consider mitigation measures to ensure all students have safe and equal access to education without discrimination.
Risk of deepening inequality
“There is a real risk of deepening inequality across Sudan if the plight of students affected by the humanitarian crisis is ignored. It would be tragic for the children of Sudan who that have already bravely endured almost 2 years of uncertainty, trauma and violence unleashed by war to be denied their aspirations for a better future,” said Mohammed.
As a humanitarian organisation, Plan International continues to prioritise access to safe and inclusive quality education services for children most affected by the conflict in Sudan. This includes constructing temporary learning spaces, training teachers in crisis contexts and providing digital learning opportunities for out of school children.
Categories: Education, Emergencies
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