USAID announced a new partnership with UNICEF to support the inclusive education of Venezuelan migrant and refugee children in Peru, following a visit to the school by Administrator Samantha Power.
Peru hosts the second largest Venezuelan migrant and refugee population in the world, with 1.6 million individuals who are seeking safety and a better life. USAID values its continued partnership with Peru and supports the Government of Peru’s efforts to host Venezuelan migrants and refugees and help them to build new lives in their host communities.
With an investment of $2 million, the project will endeavor to secure access to education and formalization of legal status for migrant children, adolescents, and household members in Peru. UNICEF will implement the project in partnership with HIAS and the Government of Peru.
By helping students remain in school and receive quality education, this initiative will facilitate legal status for migrant children and their guardians through enrollment and retention in the formal education system. When a migrant receives the legal status and support they need to stay, settle and succeed in their new host community, they have greater opportunities to quickly integrate, thrive, and contribute to the larger economy.
USAID and the U.S. government recognize the value of each person and their contribution to society, and in turn, prioritize the formal inclusion of Venezuelan migrants into Peruvian society. Working with key allies and partners across sectors, USAID continues to support migrants and refugees thrive where they are and deterring dangerous onward irregular migration.