UNICEF, IRCS Bolster Emergency Education for Iranian Children

UNICEF Iran and the Iranian Red Crescent Society (IRCS) have launched a joint initiative to safeguard early childhood education (ECE) during emergencies, targeting Iran’s disaster-prone regions, UNICEF website reported. As Asia’s fourth most vulnerable country to natural disasters, Iran faces frequent disruptions to education services due to floods, earthquakes, and droughts.

In December 2024, the partners trained 270 IRCS volunteers—including teachers and psychosocial support teams—in inclusive ECE strategies for emergencies. The workshop covered disability inclusion, child protection, and trauma-responsive teaching methods.

“ECE provides stability in crises,” emphasized a UNICEF Iran spokesperson, noting the program’s focus on marginalized groups, including children with disabilities. The 2024-designed initiative builds a national network of educators equipped to deliver learning support before, during, and after disasters.

Future phases will expand community-based ECE services to remote villages, incorporating feedback from initial trainings. The collaboration underscores UNICEF’s commitment to education access amid crises, ensuring vulnerable children retain developmental opportunities despite environmental challenges.