Child Protection

Over the past year, Children Relief Service (CRS) has remained committed to its mission of protecting children, empowering youth, and promoting education in Dzaleka Refugee Camp, Malawi. This report highlights CRS’s achievements in child protection, English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education, and vocational training for girls' empowerment in hairdressing and cosmetology between March 2024 and March 2025. Key achievements include: ? Strengthening child protection awareness and reporting mechanisms. ? Providing emergency support and trauma healing for vulnerable children. ? Launching and expanding an EFL program to improve refugee education access. ? Empowering 120 girls through vocational training in hairdressing and cosmetology, reducing early marriages and unemployment. These efforts have transformed lives, ensuring that children and youth, particularly girls, have opportunities for a better future. 2. Child Protection Achievements 2.1 Child Protection Awareness and Community Engagement Monthly Awareness Sessions: Trained 500+ community members (parents, teachers, local leaders) on child rights, safeguarding, and abuse prevention. School-Based Training: Equipped 500 students with knowledge on identifying and reporting abuse. Public Advocacy Events: Hosted two major events addressing child marriage, gender-based violence (GBV), and child labor. 2.2 Prevention and Response to Child Abuse & Exploitation Case Management: Assisted 120+ abused children by linking them to legal aid, psychosocial support, and emergency services. Child-Friendly Spaces: Maintained safe spaces for children to play, learn, and heal. Emergency Support: Provided food, shelter, and medical aid to children in crisis. 2.3 Ending Early Marriage & Keeping Girls in School 50+ girls rescued from early marriage and returned to school. 200+ girls received school fees, uniforms, and mentorship. Engaged men & boys in discussions on changing harmful gender norms. 2.4 Strengthening Child Protection Systems 10 child protection committees established and trained. Collaborations with police, social welfare, and NGOs to improve child protection responses. 24/7 Child Protection Helpline set up for anonymous reporting of abuse. 2.5 Psychosocial & Trauma Healing Support 150+ children received individual and group counseling. 3 child-led support groups created to help survivors of abuse. Art & Play Therapy introduced for trauma recovery. 3. English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Program 3.1 Program Overview CRS launched an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) program to help newly arrived refugee children and youth overcome language barriers, enabling them to access education and employment opportunities. 3.2 Objectives Educational Inclusion: Preparing children for formal schooling by improving English proficiency. Livelihood Enhancement: Equipping youth with language skills for better job opportunities. Community Engagement: Helping students integrate and communicate in the refugee camp. 3.3 Target Beneficiaries Newly arrived refugee children with limited English skills. Youth seeking employment in English-based workplaces. Children preparing for school enrollment but facing language barriers. 3.4 Approach Interactive classes focusing on speaking, reading, listening, and writing. Context-based learning, using real-life scenarios to enhance practical communication. Vocational language training, tailored for specific job-related English skills. Community activities for practical application and social integration. 3.5 Expected Impact ? Increased job opportunities for refugee youth. ? Greater participation in formal education. ? Stronger social integration within the community. 4. Vocational Training for Girls’ Empowerment in Hairdressing & Cosmetology 4.1 Program Overview CRS implemented a vocational training program for girls in hairdressing and cosmetology to combat early marriage, unemployment, and financial dependence. 4.2 Training Courses Hairdressing: Training in hairstyling, braiding, cutting, and professional hair care techniques. Cosmetology: Skills in skincare, makeup application, nail care, and beauty therapy. Entrepreneurship & Financial Literacy: Business skills, budgeting, and savings management to promote self-reliance. 4.3 Key Achievements 120 girls trained in hairdressing and cosmetology, equipping them with marketable skills. 40% of graduates secured employment or started their own businesses. Community acceptance increased, as families began supporting vocational education for girls. 4.4 Impact on Gender Equality ? Economic empowerment reduced financial dependence on early marriage. ? More girls gained confidence and leadership skills. ? Families recognized the value of educating and training girls.