Context:  In Assam, amid devastating floods and landslides claiming lives, children in relief camps will receive educational support through a school in a box initiative.

• Designed by UNICEF, these kits cater to children aged 6-18, providing learning materials to ensure education continuity despite displacement and trauma. disasters.

About ‘School in a Box’ Initiative

• Children in flood-affected areas of Assam will get a ‘school in a box‘ to keep their education going. This plan is for 167 relief camps in the state, where floods and landslides have caused 31 deaths since May.

• Goal: The goal is to help children deal with the trauma of losing their homes or family members.

• Focus: The focus is now on children aged six to 18, not just those under six.

• Most areas in Assam have at least one relief camp; places with more people have two.

• Each camp will get a child-friendly space (CFS) kit which is designed by UNICEF. It is updated for children and teenagers aged six to 18.

• The kit includes notebooks, drawing books, pencils, and other learning materials.

Implementation and Training

• The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) is conducting training for officials and field workers from the Women and Child Development and Education Departments.

• Training aims to maximize the utility of the ‘school in a box‘ kits and reduce mental stress among flood-hit children.

• Sessions are being held at block and circle levels to equip Anganwadi workers and grassroots stakeholders with the necessary skills.

The initiative to provide “school in a box” kits during Assam’s floods reflects several ethical values. It prioritizes:

• Compassion and Care: By addressing the educational needs of children amidst trauma, the initiative demonstrates compassion and care for vulnerable populations.

• Equity and Inclusion: The kits are designed to cater to children aged 6-18, ensuring inclusivity and equitable access to educational resources regardless of age or background.

• Responsibility and Accountability: Training sessions for officials and grassroots workers underscore a commitment to responsibly managing relief efforts, ensuring accountability in education and relief camp operations.

• Empathy and Support: By considering the psychological impact of displacement, the initiative shows empathy and provides essential support to help children overcome trauma and continue their education.

• Sustainability: Initiatives such as installing sanitary napkin vending machines in relief camps reflect a sustainable approach to addressing broader health and hygiene needs, promoting dignity and well-being.