Research

WHAT IS CHILD-FRIENDLY AND EQUITABLE BASIC EDUCATION?

A child-friendly school revolves around the goal of making the basic education experience engaging and stimulating for children aged 6–12 years. The goal also requires schooling to be of good quality and accessible to all children. These principles are the core of the UNICEF child-friendly school education model because they:

• ensure inclusive enrolment and equal treatment of all school-aged children in safe, healthy, protective and positive environments;
• promote learning and the acquisition of knowledge, capacities and attitudes through relevant curriculum and effective teaching and learning; and
• strive for democratic participation of all students, teachers, families and the local society, making the school a harmonious learning community with strong leadership from school managers.

Though separate elements, all three elements of the UNICEF basic education model are symbiotic: Child-friendly learning is recognized globally as the key to delivering quality education to all children. Child-friendly, equitable and quality basic education helps develop well-rounded children in terms of physical, moral, social-emotional and intellectual well-being.