TECNO, UNHCR renew partnership to support primary education for refugee children in Kenya

The collaboration, launched in 2020 has made significant strides and has in a short time, impacted over 17,000 refugee children and 40 students supported through the UNHCR’s DAFI scholarship program.

This initiative has also contributed to the enhancement of teacher support and school infrastructure.

Looking ahead to 2024, TECNO’s support is set to benefit more than 7,000 children in Kenya among the 11,500 new refugee students expected to enrol. This support is designed to help these children realize their potential and secure a brighter future.

UNHCR plans to enrol over 55,000 out-of-school children into primary education within the Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps in the next four years. There are more than 217,000 children of school age within the camps and settlements but despite a high gross enrollment rate, the net enrollment for school-aged children stands at 53%.

As of May 2024, Kenya hosts approximately 774,370 refugees and asylum seekers, making it the fifth-largest refugee-hosting country in Africa.

TECNO’s financial contributions for 2024 are set to enhance educational outcomes through various means, including the provision of scholastic materials, hygiene kits for girls, infrastructure development, and additional resources for both students and teachers.

Adriani Wahjanto, UNHCR Deputy Representative in China, praised the extended partnership: “UNHCR values the continued support from TECNO, which is essential for bridging gaps in education and creating opportunities for refugee children. We hope this renewed partnership will inspire more private sector entities to contribute not just funding, but also expertise and networks, to build a brighter future for those forced to flee.”

Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO, emphasized the company’s commitment: “TECNO is dedicated to supporting local communities in Africa through impactful initiatives. By renewing our partnership with UNHCR, we aim to further enhance educational conditions for refugee children. We believe that education is crucial for transforming the lives of refugee children and laying the groundwork for a better future. Investing in primary education today is an investment in a sustainable tomorrow.”

This partnership underscores the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education, a key component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically Goal 4.

UNHCR’s primary education programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of refugee children in each country, with continuous improvements based on past experiences to ensure safe and engaging learning environments.

TECNO and UNHCR’s renewed collaboration highlights a shared commitment to advancing education and supporting the long-term well-being of refugees in Kenya and beyond.