In some countries, education is a lifeline for children, providing them with stability and hope for the future.
For millions of children living in poor countries or in crisis, going to school is about so much more than learning to read and write. It gives them a place of safety and support and represents an opportunity to better their situation in the future.
In countries affected by conflict, poverty and/or corruption, attending school helps shield children from the risks of child labour, early marriage and recruitment into armed groups. It can also connect them to essential services such as clean water, meals and vital health information. This makes education genuinely transformative.
Aid cuts will affect millions
UNICEF’s latest analysis shows that education is under threat in many countries and warns that international aid for education could fall by over US$3 billion by the end of 2026. If those cuts go ahead, it means that up to six million more children may be pushed out of school over the next year, overturing all the progress that has been made so far.
Emergency education, which is prevalent in so many places due to violence, unrest and natural disasters, is the best chance some children have to learn. When the money stops, this is the area that is cut first, as teachers can only go unpaid for so long.
Investment is critical
There is so much to be gained from education, for individuals and societies, such as a skilled workforce, reduced inequality, economic growth and more cohesion and understanding between nations. That’s why international investment in education is so important – to make the world a better place for everyone.
Read more from UNICEF about the benefits of education investment
References
- The win-win of investing in education. Available at: https://www.unicef.org/stories/win-win-investing-education (Accessed 27 January 2026)
