World Vision Eswatini appeals for the inclusion of children of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in free primary education during World Refugee Day 2023 commemorations

World Refugee Day, an international day that is celebrated every year on 20 June, is an opportunity to recognise the challenges refugees endure, as well as their resilience in seeking to recover and rebuild their lives. It celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.

World Vision Eswatini, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ministry of Home Affairs, all gathered at Malindza Refugees Reception Centre to recognize the courage and resilience of millions of refugees who have been forced to flee persecution, the generosity of the communities that host them, and the global response of humanitarian partners that support them. This year’s theme was “Hope Away from Home”, which means a chance to thrive in a new country, a place to call home in a new city, a sense of belonging in a new community.

The UNHCR Representative, Monique Ekoko, highlighted the importance of including refugees in the communities where they have found safety. She commended the people of Eswatini for keeping their borders and hearts open for people in need of protection.

World Vision Eswatini, in partnership with UNHCR, provide sewing classes for refugees to make and sell clothes as part of a livelihood programme for refugees in Eswatini and also facilitate the adoption of hygiene and sanitation practices in the Malindza Reception Centre, as well as support them to access basic needs.

However, refugees in communities are still facing severe problems with enrolling their children at local schools.

An article from The Times of Eswatini (1 December 2022), pointed out the fact that findings of an assessment in the rights of refugees in the country have revealed that children born to refugees are denied their right education.

Primary school-going children of Refugees and Asylum Seekers are still expected to pay school fees. Yet, their parents are unable to pay school fees even after some were supported with payment of the required deposit. As such, some end up dropping out of school, a truly painful event for a child.

Speaking at the event, World Vision in Eswatini’s National Director, Tinah Mukunda, advocated for children of Refugees also to be included in the free primary education as well;

“As World Vision, we appeal for the inclusion of children of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in free primary education”, she said.

World Vision has been present in some of the most difficult places on earth, motivated by our faith to embody the love and compassion of Jesus.