Ways in which UNICEF is relevant to my current professional development:

UNICEF helps many countries and recently the organization just help clean water in Cerritos II, Honduras
UNICEF staff visit a small community in western Honduras to see how the lives of residents have changed since the installation of improved water and sanitation infrastructure. With support from UNICEF, the National Autonomous Service of Aqueducts and Sewers (SANAA) recently installed improved water and sanitation infrastructure in the area. Twelve months ago, this programme brought tap water to each of the 40 homes in this community, changing residents’ lives completely. “Before the water was provided, individuals were getting sick three times a month. Some developed an itchy rash, and they said it was because of water. But now it doesn't happen anymore. The community health centre confirmed that water-borne diseases have declined.

Early childhood education and school readinessUNICEF strives to improve young children’s capacity to develop and learn, and to ensure that educational environments provide the tools they need to flourish. UNICEF wants to ensure that no child is at a disadvantage and that all girls and boys can realize their fullest potential, both inside and outside the classroom. UNICEF work on behalf of school readiness rests on three pillars: children’s readiness for school; schools’ readiness for children; and the readiness of families and communities to help children make the transition to school. Together, these pillars bolster the likelihood of a child being able to succeed in school. Children’s readiness for school helps them make a smooth transition from home/pre-school to school in terms of their preparedness to learn and to the new learning environment. Schools’ readiness for children ensures that learning environments are child-friendly and adapted to the diverse needs of families and young learners as they enter school. In turn, families’/communities’ readiness for school connotes a positive and supportive environment at home, which facilitates children’s learning and the transition from home/pre-school to school.

Global economic crisis and recovery

In many parts of the developing world, children and poor households are being hard hit by the cumulative effects of the continued high food prices, economic slowdown and fiscal adjustments. As households cope by compromising essential expenditures, children's rights to education, health, and protection have come under increasing threat. Many governments are facing increased social demands, but decreasing fiscal resources to address them. Despite signs of recovery in some parts of the world, economic recovery will not be soon or strong enough to protect many children and the poor. UNICEF is working within countries to provide ongoing technical assistance to partner with governments in education, health, social protection and socio-economic policies.