Unicef calls for universal access to online, distance learning for children during pandemic

Ambassador Rabab Fatima, also the president of the Executive Board of Unicef and permanent representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, has said that children's access to online and distance learning universally should be a top priority during Covid-19 pandemic.  

"Distance learning for a large majority of children in the developing countries remains a challenge due to lack of access to digital platforms and internet connectivity and only about 30% have access," said the ambassador, reads a press release issued by Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations, New York.

Commending the Unicef for their dedicated and courageous efforts worldwide in handling the pandemic crisis and standing by the children of the world, Ambassador Fatima opened the first ever virtual annual session of the Unicef Executive Board on June 29 in New York.

Highlighting on the grim realities facing many countries, especially the lower income countries, the least developed countries, and in Africa in the face of the Pandemic, Ambassador Fatima said, " Even the simple task of 'hand washing' is a challenge for many children as they have no access to water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure". 

Executive Director of Unicef Henrietta H Fore, addressed the programme, among others.