Prioritising Learning and Supporting Sector Integration in Emergencies

Prioritising Learning and Supporting Sector Integration in Emergencies Despite increased focus on the importance of education as an aspect of a multi-sectorial humanitarian response to emergencies, the implementation of... [ view full abstract ]

Prioritising Learning and Supporting Sector Integration in Emergencies

Despite increased focus on the importance of education as an aspect of a multi-sectorial humanitarian response to emergencies, the implementation of continued education is often overlooked or placed as a secondary or recovery consideration. The limited connection and perceived lack of interdependency between sectors has potential to create a segmented and inefficient response that often sees education as a minor priority.

All aspects of the initial response to the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Sierra Leone in 2014/15 were slow and disjointed; mirroring the existing lack of coordination and disconnect in the Sierra Leonean development context. This gave rise to isolated interventions that did not capitalise on cross learning opportunities; causing confusion, duplication and substantial oversights, particularly in the area of education. Many education focused development partners in the country ceased or restricted operations and humanitarian organisations and donors initially focused attention primarily on the health response with education not integrated into the overall response.

This paper will discuss how the education sector adapted to an emergency setting during the EVD outbreak. It will examine how lessons learned from the response at large have the potential to direct and support the sustainable integrated recovery and future educational development of the country. The paper will review coordination documentation and processes throughout all phases of the emergency identifying the successes, challenges and how learning from the overall emergency response will shape the future direction of education as the country transitions to sustainable recovery.