Maysa Jalbout, an internationally recognized leader in education and philanthropy, has actually been selected Director of Education Can not Wait (ECW), the United Nations’ global fund for education in emergencies. The statement was made by Her Excellency Sigrid Kaag, Chair of the ECW High-Level Steering Group, following a competitive international search led by a choice committee consisting of agents from UNICEF, donor governments, and civil society.
“Maysa’s remarkable performance history, long-standing commitment to the world’s most susceptible kids, and clear vision for the future of education in crises make her the perfect leader to assist Education Can not Wait into its next stage,” stated Ms. Kaag.
Reviewing her appointment, Ms. Jalbout said, “It’s my advantage to lead ECW– the international fund for public, private, and civil society partners working with unwavering urgency to provide safe classrooms to countless rooted out children. Together, we will not enable a generation of kids to be defined by crisis. As a previous refugee, I understand education is not only about discovering; it is a lifeline in emergency situations. Ultimately, it is the structure for peace and financial opportunity that the world needs now more than ever.”
Ms. Jalbout assumes her role on 1 April 2026, at a pivotal moment for the humanitarian sector. Armed disputes and climate-related catastrophes are intensifying worldwide, including in the Middle East, leaving millions of kids displaced and out of school. At the very same time, humanitarian financing for education remains seriously under-resourced.
In 2026, ECW will commemorate its tenth anniversary with the launch of a new strategic framework and a US$ 600 million replenishment campaign. The Fund has actually committed to providing at least half of its funding through regional and community-led companies, reinforcing its concentrate on in your area driven solutions.
Ms. Jalbout brings 3 decades of experience throughout education policy, philanthropy, and institutional management. She has established and led a number of education foundations, consisting of the Queen Rania Structure for Education, the Abdulla Al Ghurair Structure, and the Zayed Education Structure. At Global Affairs Canada, she oversaw education policy in establishing and conflict-affected countries.
An established education expert, she has published research reports with the Brookings Organization’s Center for Universal Education and Theirworld, and recommended organizations such as Arizona State University and the MIT Open Knowing Effort. She has actually also served on the boards of Generation, Alfanar Venture Philanthropy, and the International Baccalaureate.
With her visit, ECW is set to enter a brand-new phase, concentrating on resilient, inclusive, and locally led solutions to ensure millions of kids impacted by crises can continue to access quality education.