Doha, Qatar, 30 January 2025 — In a groundbreaking partnership, UNESCO and the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG CAAC) are proud to announce the launch of a new Guidance toolkit designed to support teachers and educators working with children and young people affected by armed conflict, particularly those formerly associated with armed forces and armed groups (CAAFAG). With the generous support of the State of Qatar, this innovative resource will be rolled out to educators and policymakers globally to enhance their ability to address the complex needs of children impacted by conflict.
This self-learning tool is tailored for use in formal and non-formal education settings, equipping teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to support children in their reintegration journeys. It also serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and teacher educators involved in programming and training in conflict-affected and post-conflict settings.
Ms. Virginia Gamba, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, emphasized the transformative power of education:
“Education is a cornerstone of healing and resilience for children affected by armed conflict. This Guidance toolkit is a vital step in ensuring educators are prepared to support these children in reclaiming their futures. By fostering safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environments, we can empower young people to overcome the trauma of conflict and thrive.”
Mr. Salah Khaled, UNESCO Representative to the Gulf States and Yemen and Director of UNESCO Office in Doha, highlighted the collaboration’s significance:
“This partnership between UNESCO and OSRSG CAAC reflects our shared commitment to protecting children’s right to education in the face of adversity. The Guidance offers practical tools for educators to address the unique challenges faced by children associated with armed forces and groups. Together, we aim to ensure education remains a beacon of hope and a pathway to a brighter future for all.”
The Guidance builds on extensive research, including a comprehensive review of existing resources, interviews with researchers, UN agencies, NGOs, and individuals formerly associated with armed forces and groups. Designed to be adaptable across diverse educational settings, it fills a critical gap in resources for educators in crisis and post-crisis contexts.
For more information, please contact:
- UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States & Yemen
- Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict