The recently released Joint Multi-Sector Needs Assessment (MSNA) report for 2022-2023 sheds light on a concerning reality in Cox’s Bazar – a mere 21% of Rohingya girls aged 12-18 have access to education within the refugee camps.
In a dialogue session facilitated by Plan International Bangladesh on Monday, the report’s findings were discussed, emphasizing the crucial role education plays in empowering women. The session highlighted societal barriers that impede girls from progressing to higher education levels.
The report reveals a substantial dropout rate of two-thirds among Rohingya girls aged 5-11 as they transition to the next level of education in refugee camps. However, in Ukhiya and Teknaf of Cox’s Bazar, a positive contrast emerges, with 90% of Rohingya girls aged 5-11 having access to education.
Notably, the host community faces its challenges, as 19% of girls in the same age groups and areas experience dropout rates. The broader context of the ongoing Rohingya crisis in Cox’s Bazar amplifies challenges faced by women and girls, including gender-based violence, limited educational opportunities, child marriage, and exclusion from leadership roles.
Speakers at the event stressed the urgency of gender-responsive financing and initiatives that actively engage men as allies in promoting gender equality. Md Mahfuzul Islam, superintendent of police in Cox’s Bazar, highlighted the need to address social malpractices such as early marriage and denial of education for women and girls. Additionally, he called for the creation of more employment opportunities to empower women in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the call for action becomes increasingly critical to bridge the education gap and address the multifaceted challenges faced by Rohingya girls and women in Cox’s Bazar.
