UN Education Fund Secures Over US$400mil in Crisis Support Pledge

The UN-backed Education Cannot Wait fund has achieved a significant milestone, securing pledges of over US$400 million as it works towards its US$600 million goal for the next four years. Officials with the fund described the fundraising progress as a "remarkable start" in mobilising international support for education in crisis zones.

Education Cannot Wait operates in regions experiencing conflict, displacement, and humanitarian emergencies, where access to schooling remains severely limited. The fund works to ensure that children and youth affected by crises can continue their education and access critical learning opportunities despite challenging circumstances.

The pledging conference reflects growing international recognition of education's importance during emergencies and humanitarian crises. With over two-thirds of its target already committed, Education Cannot Wait is progressing towards securing the full US$600 million needed to expand its programmes across crisis-affected areas in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and other regions over the coming four years.

The fund's work addresses a critical gap in humanitarian assistance, as education is often deprioritised in emergency responses despite its vital role in protecting children and supporting long-term recovery and stability in affected communities.