The Basic Education Coalition is grateful to Chairwoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), Ranking Member Hal Rogers (R-KY), and the Members of the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs (SFOPS) for including $975 million for basic education in the FY2021 SFOPS appropriations bill and an additional $150 million in emergency COVID-19 funding to support basic and higher education needs during the pandemic.
In a time when nearly all children and youth have had their education disrupted by COVID-19, this vital increase in support for education will help address the urgent and growing needs of vulnerable populations. Additionally, nationwide school closures pose long-term risks to children’s learning, mental and physical health, nutrition, and well-being. U.S. foreign assistance mitigates these risks by providing innovative solutions to support the continued development and education of children and youth around the world.
If enacted, the resources provided in the FY2021 House SFOPS bill, including the funds to respond to COVID-19 and support girls’ education in conflict settings, will help expand distance learning opportunities, safely reopen schools, launch inclusive re-enrollment campaigns, and support remedial and accelerated learning programs to ensure that children and youth continue on their academic journey and complete their education. The Basic Education Coalition encourages Members of Congress to support this critical FY2021 funding for international basic education.
The Basic Education Coalition is a group of leading U.S.-based organizations and academic institutions working together to promote global peace and prosperity through education.