Education: access despite the crisis

In a world marked by crises and inequalities, Terre des Hommes Suisse is stepping up its efforts to ensure every child has access to quality education—both formal and non-formal. School is not only a place to learn: it is a safe space that protects children from forced labour, early marriage, and violence.

In 2024, more than 84,000 marginalized children benefited from our educational programmes across our countries of operation, supported by thousands of teachers and partner schools.

Making School Accessible to All

In many regions, we support educational centres that help children who are out of school or have dropped out to return and remain in education. Our teaching methods are participatory and respectful, fostering success even in the most disadvantaged contexts. Working closely with families is essential, as it creates an environment that supports learning and strengthens the long-term impact of our initiatives.

Education as a Refuge in Times of Crisis

In conflict zones, we reinforce the protective role of schools. In Colombia, faced with insecurity and the risk of forced recruitment, we work with schools to prevent dropout and provide psychosocial support. In the Sahel, our accelerated enrolment and remedial programmes enable thousands of displaced children—often out of school for months—to continue learning in safe and dignified conditions.

Training for the Future

Education also means vocational training and economic integration. In Mali, Burkina Faso, and India, we guide young people—especially girls—towards viable professions and the creation of income-generating activities. These tailored pathways offer concrete and lasting prospects for their future.

Every child has the right to a future. By defending this right, we help reduce inequalities, break the cycle of poverty, and give young people the tools to become agents of change.

Our impact in a few key figures

84’300

Marginalised children benefit from educational programmes.

6’200

teachers and educators involved in activities carried out with Terre des Hommes Suisse in 2024.

560

schools supported worldwide.

"If you don't know your rights, you don't know when they are not respected and it is very easy for others to take advantage of you. Knowledge gives you security. Security makes it easier for us to face difficulties because we know where to go for help.”

Cesar, 16 years old

Colombia

Terre des Hommes Suisse considers its international work to be inseparable from its information and awareness-raising work in Switzerland. A catalogue of activities is offered to classes all over Switzerland: these activities raise children’s curiosity on themes close to their daily lives and encourage their participation through active teaching.

Awareness-raising and education about children’s rights are integrated transversally in all the actions of Terre des Hommes Suisse, as much with children and young people as with adults.

"Nowadays, our parents no longer withdraw us abusively from school. They let us continue our studies even if we are old enough to get married.”

Léa, 15 years old

Mali

The work of Terre des Hommes Suisse in relation to the right to education is in line with sustainable development goals 4 (quality education), 5 (gender equality), 10 (reduced inequalities).

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