Earthquake Impact
Effects of the 2023 earthquake and our rebuilding efforts
The 2023 Earthquake
On September 8, 2023, a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, the region where Education For All operates. The earthquake caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and communities, with thousands of lives lost and many more displaced.
Impact on EFA
The earthquake had significant impacts on our operations:
- 5 of our 6 boarding houses were destroyed and the sixth was extensively damaged
- Educational materials and equipment were lost
- Many of our students’ home villages were severely affected
- Some staff members lost their homes
- Local schools were damaged, disrupting education
Our Emergency Response
In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, Education For All mobilized quickly.
Immediate Actions
- Ensure the safety of all our students and staff
- Assess damage to our facilities and develop recovery plans
- Coordinate with local authorities and other organizations
- Launch an emergency fundraising appeal
Rebuilding and Recovery
Phase 1: Immediate Stabilization
Support to affected students, structural assessments, temporary rental accommodations, return to school for 58 girls, replacement of essential equipment.
Phase 2: Interim Operations
Additional rental accommodation, restoration of our only remaining house, community collaboration on rebuilding, replacing lost equipment and materials, facilitating 198 girls’ return to school.
Phase 3: Reconstruction
Securing land use agreements, earthquake-resistant design, capacity building, continued consultation with local stakeholders, continued support for nearly 200 girls.
Phase 4: Long-term Resilience
Disaster preparedness plans, emergency response training, contingency plans, more resilient infrastructure, stronger community networks.
Current Status
As of mid-2025, we have made significant progress in our recovery efforts.
- Nearly all students have returned to safe accommodation
- Our surviving house, Dar Ouirgane, has been fully restored
- Temporary houses have been opened in nearby communities where schools are open
- Reconstruction planning is well underway
- Long term resilience planning is in development
How You Can Help
- Financial donations to our Earthquake Recovery Fund
- Technical expertise in construction and infrastructure
- Educational materials and equipment
- Spreading awareness about our recovery efforts
- Long-term partnerships for sustainable rebuilding
Support Our Rebuilding Efforts
Your contribution helps us rebuild and continue providing education for girls despite the challenges.