Community’s Perception on Basic Education in Conflict Contexts. The Case of Norwegian Church Aid Education Program in B Elethawa District, Somalia

Abstract

This study was conducted with an aim of examining the education status and community‟s perception on basic e ducation in conflict contexts, the case of Norwegian Church Aid Education program in B elet Hawa district of Somalia. More often than not, basic education is often disrupted during emerg encies, whether caused by armed conflict or natural disaster, and many children never return to school when the emergency is over, significantly diminishing their own opportunities and their country‟s ability to break the cycle of poverty and underdevelop ment. The objectives of the study therefore were to understand the education situation in Gedo region - Somalia and the role of government and key stakehold ers in development of education; to establish the role played by education in conflict situations an d to explore community perception and participation in education programm es . The study employed a descriptive survey research design based on a cross sectional descriptive research and data was collected using questionnaires , focus group discussion and key informants interview. Findings of the study indicated that there are few education facilities which are poorly equipped, both in terms of qualified human resourc e and also basic infrastructure in the area of study. In addition, i t is clear that educatio n in emergencies work is not only relevant in the short - term response to an acute crisis, but is equally required to address educational needs over the long term, during either chronic instability or post - crisis recovery and reconstruction. The study will serve to enhance advocacy efforts towards more emphasis on education inclusion as a principal part of any humanitarian response through supporting education systems especially to the NGOs providing humanitarian assistance in the region. The study recommen ds that NGOs and stakeholders should prioritize education prioritize education as it‟s the basis for building resilience towards emergencies and promotes long - term development. This should be through adequate funds allocation and investment in school infra structure.