According to forecasts, Official Development Assistance (ODA) for education is expected to decrease by $3.2 billion, representing a 24% reduction from levels in 2023, with almost 80% of this reduction attributed to just three donor countries.
This decline will likely lead to an increase in the global number of children not attending school, rising from 272 million to 278 million, which is akin to closing every primary school in Germany and Italy combined, according to UNICEF.
“The reduction in educational funding is not merely a financial decision; it represents a pivotal moment in the future of numerous children,” stated UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Regions that are already vulnerable will be disproportionately affected. For instance, West and Central Africa could witness 1.9 million children losing access to education, while an additional 1.4 million children in the Middle East and North Africa might be at risk of being denied educational opportunities.
In total, 28 countries may lose at least 25% of the educational aid upon which they rely. Côte d’Ivoire and Mali are anticipated to face some of the most significant risks, with potential losses in student enrollment projected at 340,000 and 180,000, respectively.
The most severe impact is forecasted for primary education, with funding expected to drop by one-third. This could exacerbate the global learning crisis, potentially costing the affected children an estimated $164 billion in lost lifetime earnings.
In humanitarian contexts, the repercussions could be dire. In the Rohingya refugee scenario, up to 350,000 children risk losing permanent access to essential education.
Advocacy for Education Protection
This critical situation also imperils vital services. School feeding programs, which can represent a child’s only reliable meal, may see their funding slashed by half. There could also be a reduction in support for girls’ education initiatives. Additionally, at least 290 million children who continue to attend classes may experience a decline in educational quality.
UNICEF is urging donors to allocate at least half of all education aid to least developed countries, ensure the protection of humanitarian funding, and prioritize early years and primary education. The organization also advocates for reforms to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of financing.
“Education, especially in the context of emergencies, is often the lifeline for children. Investing in children’s education is an investment in everyone’s future,” Ms. Russell emphasized.
Source: https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2025/09/1165764
