IDB and Scholas Occurrentes Partner to Reduce Youth Violence in Haiti

ROME — The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Scholas Occurrentes agreed to work together to lower the risks of youth violence in the Haitian cities of Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haïtien, through sports and other activities in the country’s schools.

In partnership with the Haitian Ministry of Education and Professional Development (MENFP), the agreement will tap into Scholas Occurrentes vast experience of working with at-risk youth in multiple countries. Founded in 2013 on the cultural and educational legacy of Pope Francis, Scholas Occurrentes has programs in more than 446,000 schools in 190 countries. The IDB is exploring a partnership with the Fundación Real Madrid and its integration through sports for education initiative in the context of this agreement with Scholas.

The letter of intent was signed by IDB President Ilan Goldfajn and the President of Scholas Occurentes, Jose Maria del Corral. The initiative will provide $350,000 for programs targeting 2,000 youths, through a pilot sports program in 30 public schools, and by providing socio-emotional support and social values through arts and culture in school communities affected by recent trauma.

In Haiti, years of institutional fragility and insecurity have affected children’s ability to attend school regularly. As of April 2024, an estimated 45% of schools in Port-au-Prince were closed due to insecurity, while another 30% function only partially.

The IDB and Scholas Occurrentes have collaborated in six countries since 2015, with the IDB investing approximately $2.8 million to benefit 5,377 students from public and private schools. This partnership has strengthened Scholas' capacity, expanded programs like Scholas Citizenship, Football with Values, and Art to Paraguay, Haiti, Colombia, Peru, Honduras, and Panama, and improved program impact through evaluations and scaling efforts with Ministries of Education.

Additionally, as part of the IDB’s 21st Century Skills initiative, the IDB and Scholas published a paper showcasing Scholas' innovative approach to engage youth and preparing them for the workforce of tomorrow.

“Haiti is facing a very challenging situation with widespread violence that is also impacting the ability of young Haitians to receive basic education. Together with educational authorities and Scholas Occurrentes, we will help keep youths out of violence and provide them with the tools they need to succeed in ways that are engaging for them. We are very committed with the the future of Haiti and its youth,” said IDB President, Ilan Goldfajn.

The renewal of the alliance between the IDB and Scholas is very important. It helps us to continue working in Haiti, to transform the reality in the country. It is crucial that the young people of Scholas in Haiti can continue to promote an education that creates meaning through encounters, using the three languages: of the mind, the heart, and the hands”, said Scholas President, Jose Maria del Corral.