We believe that all children have a right to learn in a safe environment, without fear of violence, without discrimination, without limitations.
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Education
In Iraq, 3.2 million children are in need of educational assistance as a result of armed conflict. In some governorates, 90% of school-age children are left out of the education system (UNICEF).
IDP and returnee children are especially vulnerable and the closure of many IDPs camps has only aggravated this vulnerability. It is estimated that nearly 50% of IDP children have acute education needs. Important education gaps remain, specifically when it comes to girls and children with disabilities in remote areas.
Additionally, the education system in Iraq is still lacking funding, and the shortage of skilled teachers, learning materials and basic furniture and supplies hamper education access. Around 460,000 children also lack civil documents which prevent them from enrolling in schools and receiving proper education. Without adequate support, many children will likely never return to school.
Mercy Hands for Humanitarian Aid believes educating children is a vital investment towards a good future for Iraq. Education provides stability and enables children to unleash their potential. We strive to provide safe and secure environments that guide learning, self-discovery, and critical thinking.
Moreover, education is especially important for girls, and is the key to avoiding child marriage. Keeping girls in school, and out of marriage, is a core belief of Mercy Hands. Through our programmes, we have promoted the importance of education and literacy, increased the participation of girls, and supported national strategies to raise the level of education.
Currently, we are working in Basra in collaboration with Eduba Center to provide ICT and coding training for girls aged 12-13, including those with disabilities. At the end of the training the girls will sit certification training, qualifying them as Microsoft Office Associates.
Additionally, Mercy Hands remains an active participant in the Iraq Civil Society Education Forum (ICSEF), an ongoing platform for NGOs and civil society organizations focused on strengthening Iraq’s education sector. Through this, Mercy Hands contributes to shaping education policy and addressing systemic challenges through its participation in this forum.
Through these initiatives, Mercy Hands continues to play a vital role in improving education opportunities for vulnerable communities across Iraq, ensuring access to quality learning and fostering long-term social cohesion.
