Global Refugee Education Sees Progress but Major Challenges Persist, UNHCR Reports

UNHCR's latest report highlights global progress in refugee education, yet nearly half of the 14.8 million school-aged refugees remain out of school. The analysis reveals 7.2 million children missing education due to factors like insecurity and lack of inclusive policies, urging continued international cooperation.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has highlighted significant advancements and remaining challenges in global refugee education. Their latest report reveals that despite notable progress, almost half of the 14.8 million school-aged refugee children remain out of school.

Analyzing data from 65 refugee-hosting countries, the report shows that approximately 7.2 million refugee children are currently missing out on education. Key barriers include insecurity, inadequate inclusive education policies, capacity constraints, and language barriers, all of which threaten the future prospects of these young individuals.

Although the average gross enrolment rates for refugees during the 2022-23 academic year were 37 percent for pre-primary, 65 percent for primary, and 42 percent for secondary education, tertiary enrolment remains stagnant at 7 percent. Despite these challenges, the UNHCR notes promising progress over the past five years, with some hosting countries expanding access to education. The agency calls for continued and heightened international cooperation and innovative partnerships to address these critical educational needs by 2030.

(With inputs from agencies.)