n the wake of the devastating floods of 2022 that wreaked havoc across Pakistan, the province of Balochistan found itself wrestling with the profound aftermath, especially in most affected districts of Jaffarabad, Naseerabad, Sohbatpur and Awaran. The floods not only caused extensive damage to infrastructure but also disrupted the continuity of education for countless children.

The UNICEF-supported Education Cannot Wait project, spearheaded by the International Rescue Committee and other partners, was at the forefront of addressing the educational needs of the affected communities, particularly children who faced barriers to attending schools due to various challenges brought forth by the floods.

The project was informed by meticulous needs assessments conducted by the IRC in the target areas, ensuring that interventions were relevant and tailored to the specific needs of the affected communities, especially children. The project’s primary focus was on re-integrating over 17,000 out-of-school children into formal education systems, acknowledging the risks they faced in missing out on education opportunities.

The project’s initiatives were multifaceted, encompassing the renovation of damaged schools, establishment of child-friendly spaces, capacity-building for teachers, provision of learning materials and support for parents overwhelmed by the increased financial burden post-floods. By creating 28 child-friendly spaces and renovating 36 flood-damaged schools, the project aimed to provide safe and conducive environments for learning, ensuring that children could resume their education without further delay.

In addressing the educational needs of the affected children, the project meticulously tracked its reach and impact across various demographic and educational parameters. Out of the 17,000 children reached, the project ensured a gender-balanced approach, with over 9,000 girls and more than 7,000 boys benefiting from the interventions. The project also catered to the needs of children with disabilities.

By prioritising the educational needs of vulnerable children and communities, we can lay the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, regardless of the challenges they may face.

The project’s comprehensive approach extended beyond formal education, reaching over 3,000 children through non-formal education components, with special attention given to children with disabilities. Through community engagement initiatives like awareness walks and seminars, the project aimed to foster a culture of education within the communities, promoting inclusivity and gender equality in access to education.

Teacher training initiatives played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of education provided, with a focus on multi-grade teaching, classroom management and mental health awareness. By empowering teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the project aimed to ensure sustained improvements in educational outcomes beyond its duration.

As the floodwaters receded and schools reopened, the project successfully transitioned children into government schools, with provisions made to support their retention. Materials and resources procured under the project were handed over to government schools, contributing to the sustainability of educational initiatives beyond the project’s lifespan. Critical infrastructure improvements, including the provision of WASH facilities and solar panels for electricity, not only enhanced the safety and security of school environments but also fostered hygiene practices and confidence among parents to send their children, especially girls, to school.

The Education Cannot Wait initiative stands as a testament to the transformative power of education in times of crisis. By prioritising the educational needs of vulnerable children and communities, we can lay the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, regardless of the challenges they may face.

The writer is the International Rescue Committee country director in Pakistan