Due to the coronavirus crisis schools were also closed in the crowded refugee camps on the Greek Aegean Islands (Kos, Leros, Samos, Lesvos and Chios) since March. However, thanks to the improved situation the non-formal education centres run by local organisations in partnership with UNHCR and UNICEF are reopening now. These islands are homes to more than 10,000 school-aged children, who continued their education online, mainly through apps, even during the lockdown. They all were very eager to return to the classroom and to be able to meet their friends and teachers again. The main obstacle was due to the restriction of movement in Greece, which did not make it possible for many students to leave the reception centres where they live and access the non-formal education centres outside the camps.
Theirworld last week has been awarded by the Dutch Postcode Lottery 1.35 million euros to support emergency education for refugee children during the pandemic. The donation comes in a time of need as without this support the education centres could have not survived financially after June. However, strict rules are in place, meaning that fewer pupils are allowed in one classroom and students go to school on different days. They are also taught how to wash their hands properly and how to keep a safe distance even during playtime. Unfortunately, the lockdown had sever psychosocial impacts on many children and teenagers, but local organisations are working hard to assist them in the healing process.
To watch the special videos created for World Refugee Day by local staff on the Greek islands please follow this link!