Higher education often goes unnoticed during emergencies, but it plays a crucial role in rebuilding lives, restoring hope, and creating long-term stability. For millions of young people affected by wars, natural disasters, or political conflicts, access to universities and vocational training can mean the difference between dependency and empowerment. Education helps them rebuild not just their careers but their confidence and identity.
I’m writing about this topic because education in emergencies is usually discussed only at school levels, while higher education remains neglected. Yet, this stage of learning can shape the next generation of teachers, doctors, engineers, and leaders who help their societies recover and rebuild. Understanding how universities, governments, and organisations support students in crisis-hit areas is important, as it shows how knowledge can become a powerful tool for healing and rebuilding both individuals and nations.
Higher Education as a Lifeline During Crisis
When a crisis hits—be it war, displacement, or disaster—students often lose access to safe classrooms and learning environments. Many drop out before reaching higher studies. However, global organisations like UNESCO, UNHCR, and various local NGOs have been creating pathways for students to continue their education, even in uncertain conditions.
For example, scholarship programmes, online degree options, and international partnerships have made it possible for displaced youth from countries like Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine to pursue higher studies. This access does not only educate them but also equips them with the skills to rebuild their own communities.
Why Higher Education Matters in Emergencies
Higher education goes beyond textbooks—it helps students think critically, solve problems, and rebuild social structures. In times of conflict or disaster, societies need educated citizens to manage healthcare, governance, education, and reconstruction projects. Without access to university education, entire generations risk being left behind, unable to lead recovery efforts.
When young people continue their studies despite crisis, it keeps hope alive. They learn resilience, leadership, and practical skills that can later be used to rebuild homes, schools, and institutions. Education becomes a form of recovery.
Global Initiatives Supporting Students in Crisis
Several programmes have been launched to ensure higher education reaches those who need it most:
- UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition – Supports remote learning and higher education continuity in emergencies.
- DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) – Provides scholarships to refugee students to pursue higher education in host countries.
- UNHCR Connected Learning in Crisis Consortium – Offers blended online and in-person degree programmes to displaced youth.
- Education Cannot Wait (ECW) – Funds education programmes in emergency-affected countries, including higher education access.
These efforts show how international collaboration can bridge the education gap during humanitarian crises.
Barriers That Still Exist
Despite progress, many students in emergencies face several challenges:
- Lack of funding and scholarships for higher studies
- Limited access to technology and internet for online learning
- Language barriers and non-recognition of previous qualifications
- Psychological trauma and displacement stress, which affect concentration and motivation
Addressing these issues requires not just financial investment but also emotional and academic support systems within universities and aid programmes.
Stories of Resilience
One inspiring example is that of Syrian students who fled war and continued their education through online courses provided by international universities. Many of them have now become teachers and social workers in refugee communities, passing on the gift of education.
Similarly, after the 2015 Nepal earthquake, local universities reopened within months, supported by global agencies. Students volunteered in rebuilding efforts, proving how higher education can directly contribute to community recovery.
