In the Middle of Crisis: 1.2 Million Free Back-to-School Kits for Students in Venezuela

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is handing out school supplies to more than 300,000 children in Venezuela, with a plan to increase the total to 1.2 million to help keep children in school amidst the economic crisis.

In a nation where over a million children are not enrolled in schools, UNICEF is working to prevent students from dropping out and ensure quality education for the Venezuelan children.

Aside from back-to-school kits including a school bag and essential supplies, UNICEF is further supporting students and teachers across 16 states in Venezuela with teaching and learning materials, and recreation and education kits.

“Education isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s smart economics beyond politics,” says Bernt Aasen, UNICEF Regional Director (a.i.) for Latin America and the Caribbean. “Any additional child at risk of dropping out of school today undermines the future of the entire country tomorrow. Venezuela just can’t afford this right now.”