Today marks a significant milestone in the journey towards rebuilding education infrastructure in conflict-affected areas of Tigray and Amhara regions as a groundbreaking ceremony kicks off at Negash Primary School in Tigray, symbolizing hope and progress amid adversity.
In response to this urgent need, UNICEF, with generous support from JICA and the Government of Japan, initiated a project in 2023 that aimed at restoring school infrastructure, including Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, in 17 schools across Tigray and Amhara regions.
The project aims to reconstruct and rehabilitate severely damaged school facilities in conflict-affected areas, to ensure that children have the much-needed access to a safe and conducive learning environment. In addition, the provision of gender-disaggregated and inclusive WASH facilities will promote hygiene and sanitation practices, benefiting over 12,000 children and nearly 48,000 community members.
“The Government of Japan is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s education sector since it is our profound belief that children’s education and health is crucial for the development and well-being of any nations and communities, and such efforts will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter future for children in Tigray, Amhara, and beyond,” said H.E. Mr SHIBATA Hironori, the Ambassador of Japan to Ethiopia.
The UNICEF Representative also underscored the hope found amidst the conflict through such initiatives making a tangible difference in the lives of children, especially in conflict-affected regions.
“UNICEF is extremely grateful to the Government of Japan for this generous contribution,” said Aboubacar Kampo, UNICEF Representative in Ethiopia. “Reconstructing schools in conflict-affected regions is crucial for restoring normalcy and providing children with a safe and conducive environment for learning.”
“The work that we have started here today aligns with JICA’s values to build trust and strong partnerships, as well as achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by providing access to education, clean water, and sanitation,” said TAKANO Shintaro, Senior Representative, JICA Ethiopia. “Above all, we are excited to invest in building an environment that will allow children to learn, grow and one day give back to their communities.”
The project ceremony signifies a collaborative effort towards rebuilding educational infrastructure and fostering a brighter future for the children of Ethiopia.