Archive for category: Children

Information and stories addressing children.

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3 Recent Improvements to Higher Education in Peru

Higher Education in PeruPeru is currently ranked 77th in education worldwide and, in recent years, has seen major improvements in its higher education system. Here are a few worth noting:

The 2014 University Law

In 2014, Peru enacted the University Law, bringing much improvement to Peru’s tertiary education system, requiring universities to go through evaluations to prove basic quality standards, set stricter academic requirements for educators and provide special monthly bonuses for researchers at public universities who produce indexed scientific papers.

Before this, universities experienced lots of expansion with limited government oversight, which resulted in disparities in the quality of education among schools. During this time, many institutions operated without meeting any specific academic standards, resulting in graduates who often lack adequate experience to be successful in the labor market. To mitigate this, the law established SUNEDU, a specialized agency responsible for institutional licensing, taking away operations for universities that failed to meet a set of minimum quality requirements.

This system required universities to demonstrate that they met minimum quality conditions regarding faculty, infrastructure, student services, etc. Universities that failed to meet these standards had their operating licenses revoked and, in some cases, had to close. These efforts highlighted the goal to prioritize the quality of education in Peru, strengthening public confidence in higher education, and encouraged institutions to invest more in student success.

The 2016 Law on Institutes and Schools of Tertiary Education

This law was built on the University Law, laying the foundation for a more transparent and rigorous quality checking system. It was designed to “promote more effective student-centered, competence-based approaches to teaching and learning.”

Technical schools play a crucial role in getting students ready for a career in industries that might require practical skills, yet they have historically received less attention than universities. This 2016 law introduced several changes, including licensing requirements, quality assurance systems and stronger oversight for schools offering technical and professional education. These changes pushed for clearer educational standards while promoting continuous improvement among institutions. Additionally, the law aimed to strengthen the connection between technical education and labor market demands by encouraging institutions to engineer programs that reflect employer needs and evolving workforce trends. This allowed graduates from technical institutes to be better prepared for their future employment, and gave employers access to workers with more relevant skills, depending on the work. This reform also recognized technical schools as a crucial aspect of Peru’s tertiary education, as opposed to a secondary alternative to university.

The 2020 National Policy

When Peru enacted this policy, the policy “laid out, for the first time, a comprehensive strategy for the entire vocational and tertiary education sector through to 2030.”

This policy gives Peru more direction when creating a tertiary system that is increasingly aligned with national priorities. Instead of concentrating only on institutional regulation, this policy provides a more complete vision for the entire higher education sector, including universities and technical institutes. Its primary goals include improving educational quality, expanding equitable access, strengthening government institutions and ensuring that graduates develop the knowledge necessary to be successful in Peru, as well as increasing collaboration among institutions. The policy encourages better coordination between educational institutions, employers, the government and regional authorities so that academic programs can remain responsive to changing labor market demands. Furthermore, it seeks to lessen educational inequalities by increasing opportunities for disadvantaged groups and improving student services that result in successful graduation.

How Has This Benefited Peruvian Citizens?

About 54% of adults aged 25-34 have completed tertiary education as of 2024. This gives Peru the highest tertiary attainment rate compared to all OECD countries in the region. The country’s tertiary participation rate in the early 2000s was close to that of other OECD countries; however, Peru’s net enrollment rate has since increased at a faster pace than its peers. This achievement highlights substantial progress in accessibility in university programs, both academically focused institutions and technical-focused institutions.

Between 2000 and 2023, enrollment in private universities has increased by more than 600% (going from about 169,000 to 1.2 million students). Enrollment in public universities has seen minor increases, going from about 255,000 students to 355,000 (about a 40% increase).

To add to this, overall enrollment has increased, going from 33.92% of eligible children in 2006 and skyrocketing to 73.22% of eligible children in 2016. This highlights the ability of Peruvian schools to make changes in their educational structures that increase participation in schooling as a whole.

In terms of unemployment rates, Peru was also on a steady decline until the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in 2020, sitting at 3.38% in 2019. This is likely a result of improved tertiary education, which draws the connection between quality education and post-grad success. Since the pandemic, unemployment rates have decreased again from 7.18% to 5.12% as of 2025, and will likely return to the low numbers we were seeing in the late 2010s.

Concluding Thoughts

In all, these reforms have significantly improved the higher education system in Peru by creating a system that prioritizes accountability and student-centered tertiary education. Peru has done a great job of making efficient and effective adaptations to the education system that focus on the quality of the student experience, not the institutions themselves. 

– Emily Fleetwood

Emily Fleetwood is based in Seattle, Washington, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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7 UNICEF Celebrity Ambassadors Helping Children Worldwide

UNICEF Celebrity AmbassadorsCelebrities may be known for blockbuster films, hit songs or championship titles, but many also use their influence to improve the lives of children around the world. Through advocacy, fundraising and visits to communities facing hardship, UNICEF celebrity ambassadors help bring global attention to issues such as poverty, conflict, education and health care.

UNICEF launched its Goodwill Ambassador program in 1954 when entertainer Danny Kaye became the first public figure to represent the organization. Since then, actors, athletes, musicians and digital creators have partnered with UNICEF to raise awareness and support programs that provide children with nutrition, education, medical care and emergency assistance.

1. Millie Bobby Brown

Millie Bobby Brown became one of UNICEF’s youngest Goodwill Ambassadors when she accepted the role in 2018 at just 14 years old. Since then, she has focused on promoting children’s rights, mental health awareness and gender equality. In 2025, Brown traveled to Brazil with UNICEF, where she met with adolescent girls to learn about the barriers they face, including gender-based violence, unequal access to education and limited opportunities to shape decisions affecting their futures. During her visit, she highlighted UNICEF’s work with local partners to create safe spaces for girls, expand educational opportunities and strengthen programs that empower young people to advocate for their rights. Brown emphasized the importance of listening to girls’ experiences and creating equal opportunities for every child.

2. David Beckham

For nearly two decades, former soccer star David Beckham has worked alongside UNICEF to support children around the world. Appointed a Goodwill Ambassador in 2005, Beckham has visited countries including Sierra Leone, Indonesia and Nepal to see UNICEF programs firsthand. In 2015, to mark 10 years as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Beckham launched the 7 Fund, named after the jersey number he wore throughout much of his soccer career. The fund supports UNICEF programs that protect children from violence, improve access to education and health care and respond to emergencies. Since its launch, the initiative has helped UNICEF reach vulnerable children in countries affected by conflict, poverty and natural disasters while advocating for lasting change for children worldwide.

3. Sofia Carson

Singer and actor Sofia Carson has become a strong advocate for children through her work as a UNICEF USA Ambassador. Beyond using her platform to encourage public support, Carson has traveled with UNICEF to learn about programs benefiting children and young people. She has highlighted UNICEF initiatives that provide children with access to education, nutrition, clean water, vaccines and mental health support, particularly in communities affected by poverty and humanitarian crises. Carson has also participated in fundraising efforts that help finance education, emergency relief and health initiatives worldwide.

4. Orlando Bloom

Since becoming a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2009, Orlando Bloom has visited communities affected by conflict, displacement and natural disasters. His travels have taken him to countries including Bangladesh, Ukraine and Nepal, where he has highlighted the challenges children face during humanitarian emergencies. Bloom continues to advocate for access to education, health care and protection for vulnerable children.

5. Roger Federer

Roger Federer has supported UNICEF’s mission since becoming a Goodwill Ambassador in 2006. While best known for his success on the tennis court, Federer has devoted much of his humanitarian work to expanding educational opportunities for children, particularly in southern Africa. Through both UNICEF and the Roger Federer Foundation, which began investing in early childhood education in southern Africa in 2003, Federer has helped improve access to quality preschool education in countries including Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa. The foundation has reached millions of children and trained thousands of teachers with the goal of giving young children a stronger start before entering primary school.

6. Khaby Lame

Content creator Khaby Lame joined UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador in 2025 after visiting programs in Senegal, where he met children and young people working to improve their communities. Having experienced financial hardship during his own childhood, Lame often speaks about the importance of creating opportunities for young people. Today, he uses his global audience to promote children’s rights and encourage support for UNICEF’s work.

7. Amanda Gorman

Poet and activist Amanda Gorman became a UNICEF ambassador in 2025, bringing her voice and advocacy to the organization’s efforts on behalf of children. Through her speeches, writing and public appearances, Gorman has emphasized the importance of education, gender equality and protecting children affected by humanitarian crises. Her work reflects UNICEF’s mission of ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Why Celebrity Advocacy Matters

The work of UNICEF celebrity ambassadors extends far beyond public appearances. By visiting communities, sharing the stories of children and encouraging governments and donors to take action, these ambassadors help bring attention to challenges that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Their influence also helps UNICEF reach millions of people through television, interviews and social media, inspiring individuals to donate, volunteer and learn more about the organization’s mission. While celebrities cannot solve global poverty on their own, their visibility helps connect people around the world with causes that need support.

As humanitarian crises continue to affect children across the globe, UNICEF celebrity ambassadors remain valuable partners in UNICEF’s efforts to improve access to health care, education, nutrition and protection. Their advocacy demonstrates how influential voices can help create meaningful change for children and families worldwide.

– Kayla Moore

Kayla is based in Lake Forest, IL, USA and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Addressing SDG 3 in Zimbabwe

SDG 3 in ZimbabweIn 2015, the United Nations set an ambitious goal: by 2030, the nations of the world would meet 17  Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to achieve peace and prosperity around the globe. These goals delineated strategies to defeat all of humankind’s major injustices, including changing weather patterns, hunger, poverty, education, and of course, health—especially the health of children and infants. The goal with the most objectives under its umbrella is, by far, SDG 3, the quest for good health and well-being; however, four years out from 2030, the target for improvement still seems out of reach. To understand how the SDG has manifested since the UN set its deadline, one need look no further than the SDG 3 in Zimbabwe—and the nation’s incredible efforts to improve infant survival.

SDG 3 in Zimbabwe So Far

Developing countries are, as the name suggests, still developing in many ways—and the global north has let other priorities take the stage. Zimbabwe, a nation situated in Sub-Saharan Africa, provides a standout example of how SDG 3 has panned out. This crucial goal includes 14 areas for improvement—and in Zimbabwe, of those 14, only one has reached official SDG achievement. This standout objective is none other than infant mortality.

In a nation where maternal mortality, neonatal mortality (i.e. death within one month of delivery) and life expectancy at birth have all remained more or less stagnant since 2015, how has infant mortality, of all things, managed to make a comeback?

The Mystery of Survival

Since the functional end of the COVID-19 pandemic, infant mortality rates around the globe have been steadily dropping. In 2023, for example, UNICEF found that the total of infant deaths worldwide had halved compared with 2000. That’s quite a feat for places like Zimbabwe, where good health care is usually scarce and inaccessible. This begs the question: given the state of SDG 3 in Zimbabwe, how can infant mortality be the one thing to improve? 

Zimbabwe’s health, and in fact the health of any nation, is dependent on a number of factors. In 2021, a team of researchers, having observed the declining rates of infant mortality in Zimbabwe, paired with the University of Zimbabwe and the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) to develop a special algorithm, all with the goal of discovering the most important factors in the health of infants and children.

The findings were rather interesting: after studying more than 16,000 mothers, these researchers determined that the make-or-break factors in an infant’s survival are, in order of importance: 

  • Breastfeeding within an hour of delivery (which, according to the data, only 17.6% of mothers in the study performed)
  • The weight of the baby at birth
  • Birth order (the more children a mother already had, the more likely newborns were to survive)
  • Whether the mother had given birth to multiple children at a time (the baby was more likely to survive if she had not)

A keen reader might notice that all of these factors tie back to the mother—and the researchers noticed it, too. Concerning the second most important factor, a quote from the study on the National Library of Medicine reads, “Birth weight is a function of overall pre-conception maternal nutrition and health status, and care given during pregnancy.” This same care is the reason why many of the mothers were unable to breastfeed at birth; a mother who is malnourished, especially after hours of labor, often struggles to produce enough milk for her child. If the current state of SDG 3 is anything to go by, one can assume many mothers in Zimbabwe struggle with proper nutrition. The Global Nutrition Report states that 30% of women between ages 15-49 are affected by anemia, and only 50% are able to exclusively breastfeed.

Improvements for Women

So if health care remains scarce in Zimbabwe, and mothers remain malnourished, why have rates of infant mortality been improving? There are two important changes that contribute, and the first answer may lie in another facet of SDG 5, which aims to promote gender equality.

As it happens, conditions for women are actually improving in Zimbabwe right now. According to the official Sustainable Development Report, rates of women in the workforce have not only increased, but actually surpassed the bar for success. Changes like these impact other factors that the researchers identified as important—and sometimes, even the top four. For example, teenage or elderly mothers are more likely to lose their children than mothers in their 20s or early 30s.

If a couple has done sufficient family planning before their first pregnancy, then the target age for the mother is more likely to be met. Family planning also ensures proper recuperation between children, meaning a factor like birth order—which entails how a woman’s body might be strained by back-to-back pregnancies, but also how future pregnancies might benefit from past ones—is already accounted for. More women in the workforce also means the rise of two-income households, increasing the wealth index of families with children. A mother who can afford to eat will deliver a baby with more weight, and can even breastfeed it after delivery.

Vaccinations

There is one final change crushing infant mortality in Zimbabwe. The mother’s health is one of the most important things to look after when a newborn is in the womb; after birth, however, the number one way to improve a baby’s chance at survival is vaccination against disease. One may notice that the rates began to truly improve right after the end of COVID-19—a time when vaccinations were at an all-time high. Infant mortality between 2020 and 2022 increased by a rate of more than 1,000 deaths per year, and perhaps this rise moved Zimbabwe to action.

The SDGs have a defined goal for the number of vaccinations a newborn should have—two, at the least—and Zimbabwe has been gradually increasing vaccination rates, especially for measles, tuberculosis, bacterial infections and cholera. In October of 2025, for example, the government of Zimbabwe held a nationwide vaccination campaign that resulted in “1,730,354 children vaccinated out of a target of 1,769,881,” per the World Health Organization (WHO).

Just a year earlier, in 2024, the government ran a similar vaccination campaign to address cholera. Vaccination rates overall have improved by 60% or more since the 1980s, depending on the specific vaccine. Best of all, these vaccinations aren’t just for kids: their parents have been getting doses, too. The health of a family doesn’t just rely on the children—everyone in the household needs to be cared for.

Looking Ahead

If the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 3, are the standard for prosperity, Zimbabwe still has a long way to go. Yet, the infant mortality rate offers a golden example of how these goals intersect. If nations prioritize education, equality and prosperity for their people, then it won’t be long until their populations are a lot healthier and a whole lot happier. 

– Madison Hoar

Madison is based in Birmingham, AL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Welfare Program in Buenos Aires

Children playing with caregivers outdoors, representing the Child Welfare Program in Buenos Aires. Child Welfare Program in Buenos AiresLe Sartén por el Mango, established by the Arché Foundation, is a child welfare program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Literally translated to “the pan by the handle,” the center provides nutritious meals and enrichment activities for vulnerable children ages 6 to 13.

In December 2025, data reported that 28% of the city’s population lives in poverty. Many of those attending the child welfare program in Buenos Aires also experience additional challenges such as domestic violence, exposure to drugs and neglect. A safe and positive environment offers them a much-needed sanctuary.

How Was It Founded?

In December 2013, Argentinian Valeria Taraborelli and New Zealander Ben Whittaker founded Le Sartén por el Mango. They wanted to set up a community kitchen to provide children with nutritious meals and artistic activities to support their well-being. The Borgen Project spoke to Soledad Arce, the head coordinator of Le Sartén, about her work at the center. Arce has worked there as an art teacher and progress facilitator since 2014. She took over from Taraborelli and Whittaker in 2021, and Le Sartén became part of the Citizen Construction scheme of the Arché Foundation. This seeks to foster community and welfare in Monte Chingolo, the neighborhood in which the center is based.

About the Center

The team running the child welfare program in Buenos Aires is made up of both permanent workers and short-term volunteers. They run activities such as gardening, cooking, sports, academics and arts and crafts, as well as providing emotional support. Arce spoke of the vulnerability of the children. She wants to give the attendees a space where they can “experience a different reality” and stressed the importance of the program because “everyone deserves the opportunity to live well and develop to their full potential.”

When asked about a typical day at the center, Arce remarked that no such thing exists. She emphasized the strive to establish routine while balancing the unexpected. “The children are going through difficult situations with their families. Sometimes they come very angry, other times they cry, and other times they are very quiet,” Arce said. To manage this, she ensures she has an overview of everything so she can prioritize what is most important. She consistently checks in with her colleagues, the kitchen, volunteers, the children and their families to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

At the end of each day, Arce and her team evaluate the activities they put on to ensure they are tailored to the needs of the children currently at the center. Limited time and resources make this even more important. They must be flexible and willing to adapt to make sure everything they do is purposeful and deliberate.

The child welfare program in Buenos Aires used to be funded by the profits of a café Whittaker ran while in Australia. That has since closed, and they rely solely on fundraising events and monthly sponsors to keep up with growing attendance and inflation. Arce expressed her anxieties about the decreasing quality of food, activities and care they can offer the children and her desire to pay the hardworking staff better wages. Speaking on one of the many issues they face, Arce pointed out that they have only two shovels between 30 children, making group tasks in the garden nearly impossible. “We have to do a lot with very little,” she said.

The center witnesses many happy times. Arce spoke of positive experiences she has had with the children who attend. “The hugs, the laughter, and their achievements make it all worthwhile,” she commented. She described Le Sartén as a “refuge” that empowers her children to strive for a better life. She spoke of her awe of the children who have the strength to navigate so many difficult issues.

When asked about her favorite memory, Arce talked about La Sartén’s 10th anniversary in 2023. She invited past attendees and they reminisced about happy moments they had at the center. Arce saw firsthand the long-lasting impact the program has on whoever comes through its doors. It was “among the most deeply moving experiences I have had,” Arce expressed.

Looking Ahead

In the future, Arce hopes to expand the child welfare program in Buenos Aires. She hopes to build more classrooms and even open centers in new locations. This year, she is focusing on further fundraising efforts to ensure this vital work can last long into the future.

– Louise Nethercott

Louise is based in Vienna, Austria and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Le Sartén por el Mango

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Environmental Risks to Children’s Health in Central Asia

Industrial smokestacks emitting pollution under cloudy skies, highlighting environmental risks to children's health.Every year, billions of children suffer from illnesses related to environmental risks. Ambient air pollution and mercury poisoning are linked to a shocking 1.7 million child deaths under the age of 5 each year. Reducing environmental risks to children’s health in Central Asian countries, like Mongolia, through changing energy usage practices and reducing child exposure to mercury and other toxic materials would prevent an estimated one in five child deaths annually.

Household Air Pollution (HAP)

An annual 2.9 million deaths are attributed to HAP worldwide. Some common conditions include ischaemic heart disease, stroke and lower respiratory infections, which cause a total of 76% of HAP-related deaths per year. In Mongolia, where coal is the predominant energy source for those living in poverty, indoor and outdoor air pollution cause 132 out of every 100,000 people to die prematurely each year.

Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia. With 60% of the city’s population living in ger districts and many living in traditional felt tents, known as “gers” and small houses, a large number of children are exposed to extreme levels of HAP every day.

The country’s harsh climate, which can cause temperatures to plummet to as low as -20°C, forces Mongolians to heavily rely upon coal to survive, with three to six tons being burned annually in order to cook and provide warmth to their homes.

A study by Zaiyou Dai and colleagues in 2025 investigated the effects of HAP on the health of 1,279 infants by monitoring their health at 7, 13 and 36 months. They found the following results:

  • A positive correlation between the HAP score and the hazard ratio for pneumonia, which increased by 2% for every HAP score increase.
  • A positive correlation between HAP score and height for age (HAZ) score, which decreased as exposure to HAP increased.

The incomplete combustion caused by burning other materials, such as wood and charcoal, can also result in the emission of toxic gases like carbon monoxide. As one of the biggest environmental risks to children’s health in Central Asia, it is critical that energy production shift permanently away from burning these fossil fuels.

Mercury Poisoning

Mercury can be extremely harmful if consumed or inhaled. Central Asia has some of the most mercury-contaminated countries on the planet. For example, China contributes more than 600 tons of Hg to global emissions.

Toxic to humans, most people who experience mercury poisoning have come into contact with the chemical element by eating contaminated fish or inhaling vapors during industrial processing. Exposure can cause difficulties in child development both in utero and early life, as well as the following issues:

  • Toxic and damaged kidneys
  • Dysfunctional motor and cognitive skills
  • Impaired neuromuscular functions.

Due to fish being a key food source for lower-income families, children all over the world are put at risk of mercury poisoning. A study by Zhen-Yan Gao and colleagues in 2015 found that more than 14,000 Chinese children aged 0 to 6 years old had higher mercury levels than normal, with concentrations rising significantly if their diets included the frequent consumption of fish. These levels are an extreme cause for concern.

Ultraviolet Radiation

Ultraviolet rays, which individuals are vulnerable to during any exposure to sunlight, can be a useful source of much-needed vitamin D, but they can also have some disastrous and harmful effects. Because they are immunosuppressive, UV-B rays can cause skin damage and autoimmune diseases like lupus.

Sufferers of lupus, otherwise known as systemic lupus erythematosus, often experience:

  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Rashes caused by sun exposure
  • Weight and hair loss.

A long-term condition, lupus is life-changing and, while rare, about 15-20% of lupus patients are diagnosed as children. As the ozone layer slowly thins due to the changing climate, it is more critical than ever to protect children’s skin and their health from ultraviolet radiation.

While new environmental issues arise every day, it is also important to acknowledge the progress being made toward protecting children’s health. People from hundreds of nations are collaborating to find solutions to the many environmental risks to children’s health in Central Asia.

UNICEF and Its Fight Against Air Pollution

In 2021, UNICEF launched a program called UniSat, which was designed to help protect children’s health in Central Asia by educating youths. Girls from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan were taught how to use nanosatellites and other technology that can be used to monitor air, so the future generation can make life-saving, progressive changes that will reduce air pollution in their country and consequently protect thousands of children’s health.

The staggering loss of 1.7 million lives each year emphasizes the significance of the environment and its impact on health, a harsh reality now catalyzing countless life-changing, innovative programs and policies, such as UniSat and the Minamata Convention. With the ever-changing climate and a surge in pollution worldwide, it is now more important than ever to rethink energy usage and direct attention toward achieving a safe environment where children can thrive, not just survive.

– Ruby Fraser

Ruby is based in Cannes, France and focuses on Global Health, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Supporting Poor Families in Brazil: The Criança Feliz Program

Children in festive attire celebrate at a community event in Brazil. Criança Feliz.Low-income families in Brazil face challenges that can affect children long before they enter school. Brazil had an estimated population of 213.4 million people in 2025, according to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). Although Brazil has reduced poverty in recent years, millions of families still live with limited access to food, education, housing, sanitation and other basic needs.

UNICEF reports that about 32 million children are in vulnerable situations. These include lack of education, child labor, living in poor conditions or lack of water and food. IBGE also reported that Brazil’s poverty rate fell to 23.1% in 2024, while extreme poverty fell to 3.5%. These improvements show progress, but the number of people still affected by poverty remains high.

The Criança Feliz Program

The Criança Feliz Program, also known as Primeira Infância no SUAS/Criança Feliz, is one response to early childhood poverty in Brazil. The program uses home visits to support families registered in Cadastro Único, Brazil’s registry for low-income families. During these visits, trained workers guide families on child development, family care and access to public services. The program focuses on pregnant women, young children and children with disabilities in vulnerable families. Its goal is not only to provide information, but also to strengthen family and community bonds. By working directly inside the home, Criança Feliz helps caregivers understand how everyday actions, such as talking, playing, reading and responsive care, can support a child’s development.

Connecting Families to Services

Criança Feliz connects families to Brazil’s broader social protection system. Instead of treating childhood poverty as a single problem, the program links families to services related to social assistance, health care, education, culture, human rights and child protection. This is significant because poor families in Brazil often face multiple challenges simultaneously.

In 2025, Brazil’s Ministry of Development and Social Assistance announced that Criança Feliz would be part of the country’s social protection network through the Social Assistance Reference Centers (CRAS) and the Family Protection and Comprehensive Care Service (PAIF). CRAS centers serve as local entry points to programs and social assistance, while PAIF works directly with families to prevent and respond to vulnerable situations. This change makes the program more accessible for public services.

Impact of the Program

Criança Feliz has reached families on a large scale. According to Brazil’s Ministry of Development and Social Assistance, the program surpassed 57 million home visits in 2021 and brought child care information to families in more than 3,028 municipalities. Another government update reported that the program had accompanied 1.5 million families, including 1.4 million children and 374,000 pregnant women.

The program’s impact should be explained carefully. A randomized study of Criança Feliz in 30 Brazilian municipalities did not find clear improvements in child development outcomes under routine conditions. However, researchers also found implementation problems, including low coverage, management challenges and differences in visit quality. This means the program’s reach is large, but its long-term success depends on stronger implementation and consistent visit quality.

Organizations and Partners Supporting the Program

Although Criança Feliz is a federal program, several organizations and partners have helped strengthen its model. The Bernard van Leer Foundation reported that the program’s home visitors use technical material based on the Care for Child Development method developed by UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). These materials help guide visits around child development and family care.

The program has also involved support from groups such as UNICEF, UNESCO, UNDP, PAHO, WHO and the Bernard van Leer Foundation. These partners have supported technical material, training methods, monitoring and evaluation. Their role shows how partnerships can help public programs improve services for poor families in Brazil.

Why Support in Early Childhood Makes a Difference

Early childhood support matters because poverty can affect children’s development before they enter school. The World Bank states that millions of young children do not reach their full potential because of poor nutrition, limited early stimulation and learning and exposure to poverty and stress. These early disadvantages can affect health, education and future income. For that reason, programs like Criança Feliz focus on the first years of life. Home visits can help caregivers support children’s growth while also connecting families to services they may not know how to access. When early childhood programs work well, they can help reduce the long-term effects of poverty by supporting children before disadvantages become harder to reverse.

Conclusion

Criança Feliz shows how Brazil is trying to support children by supporting families first. The program does not solve poverty alone and research shows that implementation quality still matters. However, its large reach, home-visiting model and connection to Brazil’s social protection system make it an important effort for helping poor families in Brazil. By focusing on early childhood, family support and access to services, Criança Feliz offers a practical way to address poverty before it shapes a child’s future.

– Mateo Alcocer

Mateo is based in West Hills, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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5 Charities Operating in Myanmar

Charities Operating in MyanmarThe saying “The children are our future” is a widely held belief that underscores the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being worldwide. Yet, some regions, including Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), fall short of this ideal. This is not a unique issue facing Myanmar, however. Fortunately, Myanmar’s children are not alone in their fight for a better future. Five charities operating in Myanmar are responding to the crisis with diverse, supportive action.

What Are Some Challenges Facing Myanmar?

Myanmar is a Southeast Asian nation bordering India, Bangladesh, China, Laos and Thailand. Its geographic location and ethnic diversity have contributed to long-standing internal conflict.

In February 2021, the military junta staged a coup and assumed absolute control of the country, committing widespread humanitarian violations against the population, including the suppression of free speech, manipulated elections, unlawful detentions, indiscriminate airstrikes on civilians, unregulated resource extraction and restricted access to medical care and supplies.

As foreign aid and attention toward the conflict dwindle, Myanmar sinks deeper into chaos. Protecting the most vulnerable is crucial, and humanitarian action for Myanmar’s children is imperative.

Humanitarian Action for Children in Myanmar

Myanmar’s conflict has created an urgent and time-sensitive need for humanitarian action for children. Violence, displacement and disruptions to educational and health services continue to threaten children across Myanmar. By mid-2025, as the scope of the military takeover expands and intensifies, the conflict has internally displaced more than 3.5 million people, including 30% who are children. Of the 20 million people requiring assistance, 6.4 million are children.

Environmental disasters exacerbate children’s safety concerns. Cyclones, typhoons, monsoon floods and earthquakes destroy vital infrastructure, including homes, schools, hospitals, access to clean water and proper sanitation, especially in underserved areas.

About 55% of Burmese children live in poverty. Malnutrition and lack of immunization for vaccine-preventable diseases limit opportunities. Ongoing violence, attacks, forced military recruitment and marriage threaten children’s well-being. Sanctuaries for children are vanishing due to both natural disasters and human conflict.

Myanmar’s children still have the opportunity for a better future. Five charities operating in Myanmar continue working tirelessly to alleviate suffering and provide vital humanitarian aid to Myanmar’s children, helping them find happiness and a reimagined future.

5 Charities Operating in Myanmar

  1. Save the Children: Save the Children Myanmar is one such charity operating on the ground. It provides humanitarian aid to children in Myanmar through programs in education, health and nutrition. It offers malaria testing and emergency relief and shelter for children affected by the 2025 earthquake. Since COVID-19, Save the Children Myanmar has implemented educational programs to help children enroll in school and regain a sense of normalcy. Save the Children Myanmar has operated in the country since 1995, maintaining a neutral and impartial presence while helping children “survive, learn and be protected.”
  2. UNICEF Myanmar: UNICEF Myanmar has been dedicated to supporting children in Myanmar for more than 70 years. Its success stems from decades of experience and adaptability in the region, allowing them to promote children’s rights, understand local problems and provide effective solutions. Whether in remote areas or with local communities, UNICEF Myanmar aims to make a difference, regardless of location or circumstance. After the 2025 earthquake, it offered emergency aid, emotional and psychosocial support, including safe spaces for children to smile, play and simply be kids.
  3. The Shew Ya Min Foundation: The Shew Ya Min Foundation (SYF) is a charity organization with a mission to ensure that disadvantaged children in Myanmar receive the support they need to escape the cycle of poverty. Its goal is to assist abused children by providing access to education, health care, counseling and life skills to help them navigate instability. Its humanitarian aid for children is diverse, including drop-in and housing centers, mobile outreach programs and emergency shelters in Yangon. The SYF accommodates 100 children during the school year, with a boarding center housing more than 50 students and a medical clinic accepting 35 patients daily.
  4. World Vision International Myanmar: World Vision International Myanmar is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization. Its humanitarian aid for children in Myanmar transcends religion, race, ethnicity and gender, protecting the innocence of children exposed to violence and hostile environments. Child protection and disaster response are priorities, and implementing education, health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene programs improves livelihoods and offers hope for the future, benefiting more than 1.35 million children, including 349,383 girls, 319,724 boys and 1,322 children with disabilities.
  5. Children of the Mekong: Children of the Mekong has operated in Myanmar since 1958, providing humanitarian aid to Myanmar’s children and remaining faithful to its goal of loving and supporting them by offering a future through education. To improve individual lives, the charity helps children build character and grow intellectually, emotionally and morally. On-the-ground development programs create environments suitable for education, with access to drinking water, housing, and school supplies. Sponsors help more than 23,400 children attend school. These programs help children avoid child labor and exploitation while gaining access to education and long-term opportunities. The organization intentionally meets the needs of children and families and is determined to support Myanmar’s children in the long term.

Looking Ahead

The good news for Myanmar’s children is much louder than the noise of hardships stripping them of a happy childhood and a safe future. Their resilience, combined with the dedication of humanitarian organizations, continues to bring attention to their struggles and needs. These five charities operating in Myanmar have answered the call and affirmed their unwavering support for Myanmar’s children. Providing children with a safe environment where they can grow and thrive remains essential.

– Elora Gunn

Elora is based in Louisville, KY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Immunization Initiative Reduces Child Mortality in Zimbabwe

Child Mortality in Zimbabwe In 2025, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) publicly recognized the government of Zimbabwe for its investments in the health and safety of its children. In October 2025, Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) launched a vaccination initiative in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce child mortality in Zimbabwe. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, a public-private global health partnership dedicated to vaccinating children around the world, and the government of Zimbabwe funded the health campaign. Zimbabwe allocated $1.9 million from its national treasury to fund the program.

Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign

The government of Zimbabwe titled the initiative the National Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccination and Vitamin A Supplementation Campaign. It targeted children between the ages of 9 and 59 months across all regions of the country, regardless of previous vaccination status. An estimated 1.7 million children received vaccinations as a result of the program. Ncebile Ngwenya, a frontline nurse in Plumtree, Bulilimamangwe district in the Matabeland South Province, described the campaign’s approach: “The campaign utilised scheduled outreach points, which improved access to immunization services by delivering them at the community level. It will help protect children from measles and rubella, ensuring strong immunity and a healthier future for our communities.”

Vitamin A Supplementation and Child Nutrition

In addition to the measles-rubella vaccine, nearly 2 million children also received Vitamin A supplements. The rationale for providing these supplements was the same as that of the vaccination effort: to reduce child mortality across Zimbabwe. Vitamin A deficiency is a widespread issue across the country’s young population and can lead to malnutrition, disease and, ultimately, death. One of the most significant risks of Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is total loss of vision. VAD is one of the leading causes of blindness in low-income countries. Keratomalacia, a condition that causes corneal deterioration, is especially prominent in individuals with VAD. The average income of families in Zimbabwe is $3 a day, meaning most children do not have consistent access to foods rich in Vitamin A or other crucial nutrients.

Measurable Results

The combined effects of the measles-rubella vaccination and Vitamin A supplementation produced significant health improvements. WHO Zimbabwe estimates that 95% of children in Zimbabwe aged 9 to 59 months experienced improvements in both nutrition and disease immunity. By launching the campaign across all regions of Zimbabwe and vaccinating all children from ages 9 to 59 months regardless of financial means or prior vaccination status, the government actively addressed fatal health risks in its youngest and most vulnerable population.

Looking Ahead

The National Measles-Rubella Vaccination and Vitamin A Supplementation Campaign demonstrates how combining vaccination with nutritional supplementation can produce measurable health outcomes for children in low-income countries. As other countries facing similar challenges with malnutrition and childhood disease consider their public health strategies, Zimbabwe’s approach offers a model for reducing child mortality at scale.

– Natalie Naylor

Natalie is based in New York City, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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School Meals and Refugee Education in Chad

Refugee Education in ChadIn Chad, education is the path to a more stable future free of long-term hardship, yet millions of children remain out of school. Education Cannot Wait announced a $20 million grant in December 2024 to extend its multi-year resilience program in Chad, following a report that at least 3.2 million children and adolescents were absent from the classroom. This funding is expected to reach 66,000 crisis-affected learners.

That matters in a country where issues such as conflict spillover, climate shocks and poverty continue to disrupt education. School meals and refugee education in Chad are essential because food support and classroom access can work together during emergencies.

The Crisis in Eastern Chad

The pressure has only intensified since war broke out in neighboring Sudan in April 2023. The World Food Programme (WFP) says the Central African country now hosts 1.5 million refugees. They include 900,000 people who immigrated from Sudan, putting greater strain on communities that were already experiencing immense poverty and food insecurity.

In eastern Chad, UNICEF reported in April 2026 that 900,000 children were not registered in an educational institution. The same report said nearly 300,000 refugee children in the east were not receiving any schooling.

Why School Meals Matter

School meals are one of the clearest tools helping children stay in class. WFP says its emergency response to this problem included providing school meals for more than 125,000 children in refugee-hosting areas in 2025. It also supports home-grown school feeding programs that connect schools with local farmers so children can consume locally sourced meals while rural producers gain a market for their crops. 

According to WFP, this approach has already improved nutrition and school attendance outcomes for more than 110,000 children. In a crisis setting, a meal at school helps improve learning and household food security.

Education Support Beyond Food

Education support is also expanding beyond meals. Education Cannot Wait says more than 40% of the 66,600 children targeted through its new grant will be refugees. The program will also train more than 1,500 teachers in pedagogy, psychosocial support and risk reduction. 

This broader work strengthens school meals and refugee education by combining food assistance with improved classroom support. This is important, since Chad not only needs more students attending school, but it also requires schools that can handle displacement and overcrowding. UNICEF says eastern Chad still needs about 5,000 temporary learning spaces and 10,000 latrines to meet minimum standards.

A Positive Path Forward

These efforts are particularly important for girls. In its 2024–2028 Chad country strategic plan, WFP said that increasing home-grown school feeding can help improve nutrition and health while also keeping girls in school. UNICEF’s report on eastern Chad states that without enough education support, 70,000 children, including refugees, returnees and those from host communities, could miss school days or drop out. 

This raises the risk of child labor and child marriage. In this situation, school meals do more than tackle hunger. They help safeguard children’s futures.

Closing Remarks

School meals and refugee education in Chad are deeply connected. Food support helps children show up in class and stay enrolled, while new education funding helps schools respond to crises more effectively. Despite this, Chad still faces a major gap. 

However, active programs from WFP, UNICEF and Education Cannot Wait show that investments can keep more children in school. If those efforts continue to expand, they could strengthen educational access and long-term resilience for families across the country.

– Ashirah Newton 

Ashirah is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Targeted EdTech and Education in Sierra Leone

Education in Sierra LeoneAs global education funding declines, millions of vulnerable children face an increased risk of dropping out of school. UNICEF reports that disruptions to education systems continue to affect access to learning worldwide, particularly in low-income countries where resources remain limited. These challenges contribute to a growing global learning crisis.

The Wi De Ya System

In Sierra Leone, digital education interventions are helping schools respond to these challenges. The Wi De Ya system uses real-time data to track attendance and engagement, with plans to build local capacity to support long-term maintenance. This approach allows educators to identify students at risk of dropping out and intervene before disengagement becomes permanent.

While data systems identify risk, human support plays a central role in improving outcomes. The Global Partnership for Education reports that financial and social assistance can improve school retention among vulnerable learners. Once students are identified as at risk, schools and partners can respond with tailored support. 

This may include school supplies, financial assistance or connections to social services. The World Bank notes that education investments are more effective when they focus on the most vulnerable populations, improving both efficiency and outcomes.

Addressing Barriers Beyond the Classroom

In Sierra Leone, barriers to education often extend beyond school environments. Many children in Sierra Leone face economic pressures that push them into work, limiting their ability to attend school. UNICEF reports that child labor remains a significant issue, highlighting the need for support for vulnerable children and their families.

A 12-year-old girl named Adama, featured in a UNICEF report, spends her days breaking rocks in a quarry instead of attending school. She explains that her family earns only about $2 a day, which is not enough to cover basic needs or education costs. Like many children in similar situations, she hopes to return to school but remains unable to do so due to economic pressures.

Data from these systems also helps educators better understand the challenges students face. Schools can respond with supportive measures rather than disciplinary action. Research supported by UNESCO shows that early warning systems identify students at risk of dropping out and enable targeted support strategies that improve retention and learning outcomes.

A Cost-Effective Response To Declining Funding

As education funding becomes more limited, scalable and efficient solutions are increasingly important. This approach offers a cost-effective model by focusing on early identification and targeted intervention. The Education Commission highlights the importance of investing in effective and equitable education systems to improve learning outcomes.

By reducing dropout rates, these systems also contribute to long-term economic stability. The World Bank links increased school retention to improved economic outcomes and poverty reduction. This model demonstrates how data-driven systems can support vulnerable students in resource-constrained settings.

– Isil Ertas Senturk

Isil is based in Oakville, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr