The role of education in reintegrating ex-child soldiers: the case of Sierra Leone

In the shadow of Sierra Leone’s decade-long civil war, a poignant question emerges: How can education help fix the damage caused by war and bring former child soldiers back into society? This study delves into the heart of this question, exploring the effectiveness and gender-specific challenges of education programs designed for these young survivors, within the broader framework of Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) processes. This qualitative study relies on key informant interviews and thematic analysis to explore the impacts of educational strategies on reintegration. Focussing on the underrepresented girls in DDR initiatives, the study uncovers educational disparities that persist in post-conflict settings. Through a gendered approach, the research also advocates for a more equitable approach to DDR in line with the aspirations of Paris Principles (2011), and strives to transform theoretical frameworks into tangible outcomes, crafting pathways that support healing and learning.