“GPE is delighted to welcome Lebanon as a new partner committed to quality and inclusive education,” said Laura Frigenti, GPE Chief Executive Officer. “Education is an essential pillar of growth, peace and security. This is why GPE has long stood by countries impacted by conflict and crises. Our partnership will reinforce Lebanon’s capacity to provide education to all children on its territory, including refugees, so they can contribute to a better tomorrow.”
“Lebanon has been facing multiple crises that have taken a toll on children’s access to education – the cornerstone of recovery and prosperity,” said Dr. Abbas el Halabi, Lebanon’s Minister of Education and Higher Education. “Joining GPE is a significant milestone on our journey to advance education opportunities for children in Lebanon and to address our country’s challenges.”
Over the past decade, Lebanon has faced many challenges, significantly affecting the education sector. The refugee crisis, Covid-19 pandemic, Beirut Port blast and economic decline have greatly impacted children’s access to learning, with dire long-term consequences for their future and that of the country.
With support from GPE, and following inclusive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including civil society, the Ministry of Education will implement a four-year education sector plan focusing on improving early childhood education and enrolment, keeping children in schools and providing learning opportunities for those who are out of school. Ultimately, the education reforms aim at creating a future workforce that can contribute to economic recovery and growth and fairer society.
Lebanon is eligible for a GPE Multiplier grant and a system capacity grant.