In September 2024, 404 children in the Gihanga commune of Burundi returned to school as part of a successful initiative aimed at combating child labor. This achievement is the result of a collaborative project led by the Union of Education Workers of Burundi (STEB), with support from Education International, the Fair Childhood Foundation of GEW, AOb, and Mondiaal FNV. Launched in January 2024, the project successfully removed 229 boys and 175 girls from child labor, enabling them to resume their education.

The project’s approach combined extensive training and awareness campaigns. They were educated about children’s rights, a definition of child labor, and effective strategies to encourage education. Many parents are unaware that child labor hinders their children’s long-term development. Our workshops equip them with the knowledge to understand that education offers the best chance for a better future, Remy Nsengiyumva, President of STEB, said. A major aspect of the project was the development of educational awareness clubs in the school environment.

These clubs, coordinated by teachers trained by the union, engage local communities through activities such as street theatre. Additionally, student leaders, like Donobel, a 12-year-old in Gihanga, have actively contributed by encouraging other children to return to school.

While progress has been made, challenges remain. Despite the initial success, only 404 out of 765 children who expressed interest in returning to school actually re-enrolled. Some children and their families expected financial support, which the project could not provide. Nevertheless, the project’s efforts continue to address these barriers by involving local authorities, school administrators, and communities to ensure that children remain in school long-term.

The Gihanga initiative follows a similar project in Rukamaru, where 663 children were reintegrated into education from 2021 to 2023. The overall goal is not only to bring children back to school but to ensure they stay and thrive, providing remedial support where needed to help bridge the gap caused by years of missed education.

This project exemplifies the critical role of education unions in tackling child labour and strengthening social dialogue, improving both educational outcomes and child protection in Burundi.