The Child-led African Regional Consultation on the upcoming 4th Optional Protocol on Free Pre-Primary and Secondary Education

On 16 December 2025, a child-led regional consultation was held to inform children about the development of the CRC Optional Protocol on free pre-primary and secondary education. Moderated by Layan and Denis, with CAT members Lana and Karen alongside Roberto and Morison, the session explored critical questions on education and its impact. Tara and Kamsi took notes and shared concluding remarks as the appointed child rapporteurs of the consultation.

Children described education as power, opportunity, and a basic right which is a tool to break cycles of poverty and build a brighter future. They identified major barriers such as high costs, gender discrimination, lack of transportation, insufficient materials, overcrowded classrooms, and child recruitment into armed groups.

Participants stressed that when children miss school, entire communities suffer, perpetuating poverty and instability. They called for peer-to-peer advocacy and regional collaboration to promote the new protocol, emphasizing that greater awareness leads to greater involvement and change.

Please read the report prepared by the child rapporteurs Tara and Kamsi here.