A powerful display by UNICEF in New York serves as a stark reminder of the empty classrooms around the globe. As we approach the one-year mark of remote learning for countless students in the U.S. and beyond, families everywhere are grappling with the implications of another year spent away from traditional schooling. In response, UNICEF has urged governments worldwide to take urgent action to facilitate a safe return to in-person education.
To illustrate the gravity of the situation, UNICEF set up a “pandemic classroom” installation outside the United Nations, featuring 168 vacant desks and backpacks, symbolizing the 168 million children whose schools have been entirely closed for nearly a year due to the pandemic.
“168 empty desks. 168 unused backpacks. 168 million futures hanging in the balance,” UNICEF shared on social media. “This installation is a poignant reminder of the global education crisis. The desks and backpacks stand for the 168 million children whose education has been disrupted. Our message to global leaders is clear: every effort must be made to reopen schools.”
UNICEF’s call to action emphasizes the need for governments to prioritize the reopening of schools and to do so effectively. “We cannot afford to enter a second year of limited or no in-person learning for these children. Schools must be a top priority in reopening plans,” stated Henrietta Fore, UNICEF’s Executive Director.
While UNICEF provides guidelines for safely reopening schools, the situation in the U.S. remains complex as each state implements its own rules. Critics have pointed out inconsistencies in policies, such as allowing indoor dining while keeping schools closed. Additionally, recent reports reveal that only 4% of school-age children live in areas that meet the CDC’s criteria for safe full in-person learning. On a positive note, vaccine distribution is accelerating, and COVID-19 cases are declining. Although President Biden has expressed a desire to see children return to school, the nation awaits further action on safely reopening educational institutions.
“As we near the one-year anniversary of COVID-19, we are reminded of the devastating educational crisis caused by global lockdowns. With each passing day, children without access to in-person education are falling further behind, disproportionately affecting the most marginalized,” Fore added.
When the pandemic began in March 2020, many did not anticipate that we would still be in this situation today. What steps will our leaders take to address this pressing issue?
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In summary, UNICEF’s impactful installation serves as a crucial reminder of the 168 million children worldwide affected by school closures, emphasizing the urgent need for governments to prioritize the safe reopening of schools.