The pandemic brought education systems across the world to a halt, with school closures affecting more than 1.6 billion learners at its peak, including 167 million younger children who lost access to early childhood education. Learning losses are substantial, with the most marginalized children and youth disproportionately affected.In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic continued to disrupt education for millions of children. Education plays a key role in reducing inequality, cutting poverty rates, and strengthening societal stability. It contributes to a better society and sustainable development. Without skills for lifelong learning and active citizenship, children face greater barriers to earning potential and employment later in life.

UNICEF works around the world to support quality learning for every child. UNICEF’s aim is to ensure that every child and adolescent has access to school and quality learning.

In 2021 Ahlström Collective Impact supported UNICEF’s Global Education Program and could therefore help to offer thousands of children around the world:

  • An equitable access to quality education.
  • Improved learning outcomes.
  • Skills development for knowledge and skills to face an ever-changing world.

This report summarizes some of the key results of how UNICEF together with its partners, worked for children’s education in 2021