UNICEF steps up for displaced children amid school closures
UNICEF is working with the government to provide safe learning spaces for displaced children at the Phiasok Refugee Centre in Banteay Meanchey province. MoEYS
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Synopsis: With input from the Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation Ministry, the UN organisation is training social workers to manage spaces for child learning and counsel and support children at risk during displacement.
UNICEF Cambodia reported that as of Tuesday, more than 1,300 schools in conflict-affected provinces remained closed, disrupting the education of about 322,000 students and the jobs of 15,000 teachers.
To support displaced children, UNICEF and its partners have established safe spaces where children can safely read, draw, and participate in catch-up learning activities, helping maintain routines and emotional well-being during displacement.
In an interview with UNICEF staffers, Hun, a Grade 6 student, said classes were stopped due to the border conflict. She said she misses her friends, teachers, and the simple joy of going to school.
In collaboration with the Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation Ministry, UNICEF is ensuring that children like her have access to environments for play, learning, and emotional support. Social workers are being trained to manage these spaces effectively, identify children at risk, and offer counselling to them and their families.
UNICEF is also working with the Rural Development Ministry to distribute essential hygiene supplies and promote good hygiene practices, while establishing temporary learning spaces at displacement sites, delivering teaching materials to ensure children can continue their education even in emergency situations.
The Education Ministry reported that temporary schools in refugee camps in Oddar Meanchey province began operating on Tuesday.
“These schools are scheduled to be fully completed this week, ensuring that students can continue their education,” the ministry said.
The Ministry of Interior reported on Tuesday that many schools, hospitals, and administrative offices remained suspended in provinces affected by recent conflicts.
In Banteay Meanchey province, 330 schools, four hospitals and health centres, and multiple district- and commune-level administrative offices remained shut while 15 hospitals and health facilities have resumed operations.
In Preah Vihear province, 61 schools and 14 hospitals and health facilities were still suspended.
In Oddar Meanchey province, 260 schools, 16 health facilities, a provincial administrative office, two city and district offices, 10 commune offices, and one administrative police station were still closed.
In Battambang province, all schools, hospitals, and public service institutions—including civilian offices and law enforcement agencies—resumed operations on Tuesday.
-Khmer Times-
