Education as a Policy Priority in War Zones: Michael Wessells at TEDxTeachersCollege

Through personal stories of his experiences in armed conflict situations, Michael Wessells poignantly illustrates the need for educational provision to children in conflict situations and/or emergency situations. He argues that, contrary to much belief, these children are not to be seen as "damaged goods" or "a lost generation," but rather, they should be supported through policies that give them the universal right of all children to go to school and fulfill their dreams.

Michael Wessells, PhD, is Professor at Columbia University in the Program on Forced Migration and Health. A long time psychosocial and child protection practitioner, he is former Co-Chair of the IASC Task Force on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. Recently, he was co-focal point on mental health and psychosocial support for the revision of the Sphere humanitarian standards.

TEDxTeachersCollege 2012 explored innovations in international education at Teachers College, Columbia University, one of the leading schools of education in the world. The full-day event covered themes about education, policy, peace and justice, technology, and gender identity. For complete coverage of the conference, visit www.tedxteacherscollege.com