From the Ground Up: Education and Livelihoods in Southern Sudan

The Women’s Refugee Commission visited Southern Sudan in November 2006. The purpose of the field mission was to assess education and livelihood programs, including formal and non-formal education, vocational training, income generation and micro-credit. The trip was part of WRC’s global study on appropriate livelihoods for displaced women and youth and its work to advocate for resilient education systems in the transition from emergency to post-conflict situations. The goal of the two efforts is to enhance the well-being of displaced women, children and youth by promoting high quality and appropriate educational programs and comprehensive, sustainable livelihoods that meet real market needs and build on existing skills and experience. The knowledge gained and lessons learned from the field visit will guide WRC’s advocacy efforts and will inform future programming in these sectors in situations of conflict, displacement, and post-conflict return, emphasizing the role education and livelihoods play in the prevention of and protection from abuse and exploitation experienced by refugee women, youth, and children.