The theme for this year’s event is "Education Saves Lives: Protect Education in Emergencies (EiE)". In recent years, attack on education due to conflicts have increased while communities continue to witness the devastating impact of conflicts and disasters on education.
Also, the situation for education due to the current and impeding climate crisis is alarming.
It is against this backdrop that EFANET has embarked on series of advocacies from radio talk shows, courtesy visits to government institutions, social media campaign and the main highlight of the event -‘Bantaba’ to dialogue and raise awareness on the issue.
Speaking at the event, Mr Kebba Omar Jarjusey, National Coordinator of EFANet, explained that in Africa, GAWE is being observed at the moment when conflicts and other emergency situations are depriving millions of children and youths from their Right to Education.
“According to Education Cannot Wait, globally, an estimated 234 million school-aged children and adolescents across 60 countries are affected by crises (50% girls) and need support to access quality education that helps them achieve holistic learning outcomes; approximately 50% of crisis-affected children of school age worldwide live in Sub-Saharan Africa, the subregion facing the most complex challenges to guarantee the right to education of every child.”
“EFANet together with ANCEFA urges for The Gambia, Africa Union and other supporting institutions to help focus attention towards saving lives, defending and protecting Education in emergencies, and in particular, to ensure safe, inclusive, and continuous learning.”
Hon. Bakary K. Badjie, National Assembly Member for Foni Bintang Karanai, underscored the importance of education in national development.
“A nation cannot prosper fully without quality education and conducive learning environment for children. Students, teachers and schools need to be empowered efficiently to make quality education is produced.”
As lawmakers, he spoke of his resolve to continue advocating for the enough budget allocations to education ministries to ensure provision of right resources.
Mr Samba Keita, speaking on behalf of the Country Director at ChildFund, pointed out that this year's campaign highlights the importance of education during crises and emphasizes that it is crucial for both physical and psychosocial protection.
“Each time a school closes in Foni due to conflict, a gunfire echoes near a classroom, a child’s sense of safety is shattered. Education is more than a right - it is a lifeline.
In emergencies, he said, education offers children stability, protection, and hope, adding that it also shields them from violence, early marriage, child labour, and exploitation.
“It provides a safe space where they can learn, grow, and heal. That is why we are committed to working with government, communities, and partners to design and support alternative learning spaces — spaces that are safe, inclusive, flexible, and adapted to the realities children face during emergencies.”
The activity was also graced by students, representatives from MoBSE, GAFNA, Teachers Union and a cross section of the community.
