June 14, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Refugees and displaced people, particularly girls, are disproportionately impacted by the current global education crisis and are in urgent need of improved access to high quality education.

Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced funding of $450,000 over 3 years (2023 to 2026) to support Phase II of the Refugee Education Council (REC).

The REC is an advisory body hosted by World Vision Canada that comprises 12 youths from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South America who have been affected by forced displacement and are working to increase access to quality education in their communities.

The REC provides strategic advice to Global Affairs Canada on education for refugee, displaced and community children and youths. REC members also participate in key global education forums to add their voices of lived experience on the international stage. They also work across various sectors to achieve the meaningful integration of refugees in international decision making on education.  

Minister Hussen made the funding announcement at the REC’s official launch event, organized by World Vision Canada in partnership with Frontlines, a non-governmental organization for youth in Toronto. The event brought together youths, advocates for refugees and people who are displaced, and representatives from Canadian civil society.