Sana’a/Riyadh – 24 February 2025 – A transformative two-year, $4.2 million partnership to improve access to quality education and learning outcomes for over 12,000 girls and boys in Taiz Governorate was announced today by the Government of Japan and UNICEF. The initiative will strengthen education services for in- and out-of-school children while building the capacities of 320 teachers, 30 social workers, and 65 supervisors to foster sustainable and conducive learning environments in communities and in schools.
Recent numbers show that 1 in 4 of children at school age are not enrolled. The project, funded by the Government of Japan, aims to increase access, retention and transition of out of school children and children at risk of dropping out of education through a spectrum of activities including provision of materials to students and teachers, provision of remedial education and alternative learning pathways, capacity building of teachers, and identification and referral or provision of case management services and Life skills training for vulnerable adolescents.
Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative to Yemen stated: “Education is the cornerstone of peace and development and the future of any country. This generous contribution from the Government of Japan is a lifeline for children in Taiz. This partnership builds on our ongoing efforts to create lasting change for Yemen’s future generations.”
H.E. Mr. Nakashima, Japanese Ambassador to Yemen stated: "Ensuring that children affected by the conflict have access to education has become essential for them to overcome the effects of the horrors of war and to grasp the hope of achieving a dignified life through their learning. This assistance, in partnership with UNICEF, enables the raising of educational standards in conflict-affected areas"
Taiz Governorate, one of Yemen’s most conflict-affected regions, faces severe challenges in education access, with overcrowded classrooms, damaged infrastructure, and a shortage of trained teachers. This project leverages UNICEF’s existing programs and Japan’s support to scale proven solutions, aligning with Yemen’s national education goals.
Media contacts
Kamal Al-Wazizah
Communications Specialist
UNICEF Yemen
Tel: +967 712 223 068
Email: kalwazizah@unicef.org