Call for EOIs: Strengthening Resilience in Education and Child Protection (Ethiopia)

UNICEF is seeking partners for a $270,000 initiative to support education and child protection for crisis-affected children in Ethiopia’s Somali Region.

Overview

The UNICEF has launched a call for Expression of Interest to strengthen local capacity in addressing the education and protection needs of children in the Somali Region of Ethiopia.

The initiative focuses on crisis-affected communities facing severe drought, displacement, and disruption to education systems.

Programme Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Restore access to education for out-of-school children
• Provide safe and protective learning environments
• Support early childhood and primary education
• Promote resilience and psychosocial well-being
• Strengthen local education and protection systems

Key Focus Areas

• Education and early childhood development
• Education in emergencies
• Out-of-school education
• Skills development for adolescents
• Child protection and psychosocial support

Context

The Somali Region is facing:

• Prolonged drought and climate shocks
• School closures and disrupted learning
• Increased dropout rates, especially among girls
• Limited access to safe water and essential services
• Rising displacement and vulnerability

These challenges have left thousands of children without access to education and protection.

Programme Approach

Accelerated Learning Pathways

• Target group: Out-of-school children (especially ages 12–14)
• Focus on literacy and numeracy
• Enable reintegration into formal education

Early Childhood Support

• Accelerated school readiness programmes
• Preparation for entry into primary education

Integrated Protection Services

• Safe learning spaces
• Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS)
• Referral mechanisms for vulnerable children

Inclusion and Equity

• Gender-sensitive programming
• Inclusion of children with disabilities
• Promotion of social cohesion

Funding Details

• Indicative budget: $270,000
• Type: Expression of Interest (EOI)
• Purpose: Identify implementing partners

Eligible Applicants

• Civil society organizations (CSOs)
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Organizations with experience in education and child protection

Expected Outcomes

• Increased enrollment of out-of-school children
• Improved access to inclusive education
• Strengthened community-based protection systems
• Enhanced resilience among children and communities
• Improved transition back to formal schooling

Why This Opportunity Matters

This initiative is critical because it:

• Addresses urgent education gaps caused by climate crises
• Supports vulnerable and displaced children
• Promotes long-term resilience and recovery
• Strengthens local systems and service delivery
• Prioritizes inclusion and equity in crisis response

How to Apply

Steps

1. Assess Alignment
   Ensure your organization fits UNICEF’s thematic priorities
2. Prepare Proposal
   Include:

• Technical approach
• Implementation strategy
• Target population and locations

3. Demonstrate Experience
   Highlight past work in education, emergencies, or child protection
4. Submit Expression of Interest
   Through UNICEF’s official application process

Tips for Applicants

• Emphasize experience in emergency education
• Include strong community engagement strategies
• Highlight gender and inclusion approaches
• Demonstrate capacity for integrated service delivery
• Show coordination with local authorities

FAQs

1. What is the funding amount?

Approximately $270,000.

2. Is this direct funding?

No, it is an Expression of Interest to identify partners.

3. Who can apply?

NGOs and civil society organizations.

4. What is the main focus?

Education and child protection in crisis-affected areas.

5. Which region is targeted?

The Somali Region of Ethiopia.

6. What age groups are targeted?

Both early childhood and adolescents, especially out-of-school children.

7. What is the expected impact?

Improved access to education, protection, and resilience for vulnerable children.

Conclusion

This call by UNICEF presents a significant opportunity to support crisis-affected children in Ethiopia.

By focusing on education, protection, and resilience, the programme aims to create lasting improvements in the lives of vulnerable children and communities.