Pre-primary, primary and secondary education are available in the Dadaab refugee camps. There are also limited opportunities for adult literacy, special education, accelerated learning, vocational and technical training and university education.
The education system and curriculum used in the Dadaab refugee camps are for the host country, Kenya. Refugees enrolled in primary and secondary school have access to the Kenyan national examinations.
Why is education important to refugees?
Education is a fundamental human right. It is a powerful agent of change, and improves health and livelihoods, contributes to social stability and drives long-term economic growth.
Education also protects. When children are in school, they are less vulnerable to sexual exploitation and abuse, child labour and recruitment in criminal and militia groups. Educated individuals are more likely to make positive choices regarding their household’s health and nutrition. They are also more likely to contribute to their households and communities, both during displacement, on return home, or after resettlement to third country.
When is the right time to enroll in school?
In Kenya, formal education begins at 4 years old. Children who are entering at a higher grade, may be asked to provide school reports or certificates from their previous school. If you do not have your certificates, you may be able to set for an equivalency text. Please contact your nearest school for more information.
Post-secondary education opportunities are available at the vocational, and university levels at the cost of the individual student or on scholarship.
Where can one find a school in Dadaab?
There are a total of 22 pre-schoold, 22 primary schools, 6 secondary schools, 5 primary accelerated learning centers, 9 Alternative Basic Education (ABE) centers, and 6 vocational learning centers (TVET) in Dadaab refugee camps (Hagadera, Ifo and Dagahaley).
All interested refugee learners need to physically go to the nearest school, and he/she will be assessed, issued with basic education kits and enrolled to learn.