MARIB, YEMEN – The director of the Social Affairs and Labor Office in Marib Governorate, Abd al-Hakim al-Qaysi, highlighted the significant challenges facing children in Marib and across Yemen on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, World Children's Day. Al-Qaysi emphasized the profound impact of displacement on children's well-being, citing widespread issues with access to education and healthcare, leading to significant mental health problems.

In a video statement to Barran Press, al-Qaysi detailed the office's efforts to support children, including providing psychosocial support, distributing school supplies and uniforms, and offering healthcare services. He specifically mentioned the office's crucial role in assisting children previously recruited by the Houthi group, providing them with psychological, educational, and life skills support.

Al-Qaysi revealed that 60 social workers are deployed across displacement camps and host communities, providing mental health support to children. In 2024 alone, the office has provided support to 650 children and their families, addressing issues such as schizophrenia, social withdrawal, and aggression, all of which significantly hinder their education and overall development. He also noted a high incidence of psychological disabilities among children.

Al-Qaysi stressed the critical need for more psychiatric centers and specialists in Marib, given the current lack of resources. He appealed to the government, the Ministry of Education, and international and local organizations to prioritize support for children in Marib, which hosts approximately 60% of Yemen's displaced population, many of whom live in overcrowded conditions with inadequate housing, further impacting children's education.

Looking ahead, al-Qaysi announced an "Open Day for Children" event scheduled for November 21st at the Al-Jafina camp, featuring activities designed to help children cope with their difficult circumstances. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of ensuring children's access to basic rights, including education and healthcare.

Al-Qaysi's statements are underscored by international reports highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict on Yemeni children. According to Save the Children, 4.5 million Yemeni children are currently out of school – two out of every five children – despite a recent decrease in fighting. The report further indicates that displaced children are twice as likely to be out of school.