Education Must Act Now to Address the Regional Crisis Caused by the Armed Conflict in Sudan

The conflict in Sudan continues to devastate the lives of millions, especially children and adolescents who are bearing the brunt of the crisis. As we mark the one-year anniversary of this brutal conflict, the call for urgent action to provide life-saving quality education to these vulnerable children grows louder.

With over 14,000 innocent lives lost and half of Sudan’s population in need of humanitarian assistance, the situation is dire. Millions of children are at risk of losing out on their education, with schools shuttered or struggling to reopen. The need for international support is critical to prevent further devastation and ensure a brighter future for these children.

Education Cannot Wait (ECW), the global fund for education in emergencies, has responded with speed and coordination to provide support to children impacted by the conflict in Sudan. With millions of dollars in funding already provided, ECW is working to reach over 86,000 girls and boys with access to inclusive, quality education.

However, more support is needed to address the education crisis in Sudan and other forgotten crises around the world. With over 224 million children impacted by armed conflict, displacement, and other crises, urgent action is required to protect their futures and ensure their rights are upheld.

As calls for renewed support for ECW’s Strategic Plan grow, the need for public donors, the private sector, and philanthropic foundations to mobilize $600 million in funding is crucial. With a total of $1.5 billion, ECW aims to reach 20 million children and adolescents, providing them with the opportunity to build a better future.

The stories of children like Living Sunday and Nakurchel highlight the transformative power of education in the face of adversity. As the world unites to support these vulnerable children, the message is clear: Sudan cannot wait, Africa cannot wait, and the time to act is now.