Educating the Children of Darfur in Eastern Chad

Since the beginning of the crisis in Darfur in 2003, more than 270,000 Sudanese refugees arrived in Eastern Chad, fleeing insecurity and armed attacks by government forces and militia. They are hosted in 12 large refugee camps spread over the east. Due to the hostile and arid environment of the region as well as the scarcity of natural resources, lack of economic opportunities, and the resulting very limited prospects for self-sufficiency and integration, the majority of the refugees remain dependent on humanitarian aid.

Schools have been opened in the 12 refugee camps to enroll the children in primary education. The parents identified some persons, usually not formally qualified, to teach the children. As is usual in such situations, the professionals had not fled with the rest of the population; very few qualified people were to be found. The teaching force therefore consists of teachers without qualifications, with a low level of education themselves. This leads to a lack of confidence, competence and diligence. 

Though the quality of education is below the standard we want, schools are operating in the camps, and the majority of children are already attending them. UNHCR provides for the payment of incentives to the teachers recruited and basic school supplies, as well as ensures the maintenance of the buildings.  UNICEF provides some textbooks and school kits which include some exercise books and scholastic items.