In Mali, accelerated education is helping thousands of children get back to school.
![A photo of teacher and child representing Social and Emotional Learning and Mental Health](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/SEL2.jpg)
When schools, families, and communities promote social and emotional learning (SEL), children and youth do better academically and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. In the long term, they are also more likely to enjoy career and family success. However, some children and youth need additional, more intensive mental health supports to achieve these outcomes.
Around the world, EDC partners with caregivers, formal and nonformal educators, community-based organizations, and state- and national-level agencies to foster SEL and address mental health needs. Our work helps communities and school districts build strong systems of SEL and mental health supports, use evidence-based practices, and improve policy.
Learn more about Rapid Assessment and Action Planning, an innovative, data-driven solution to address school districts’ SEL and mental health needs.
Featured
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Building youth programs in unstable regions can be challenging. Here are four ideas for practitioners.
![Raising an AIDS-free Generation in South Africa A photo representing Raising an AIDS-free Generation in South Africa](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/SouthAfrica_Podcast.jpg)
Taking a comprehensive approach to sexuality education may help prevent HIV and AIDS. EDC’s Viwe Mtshontshi discusses.
![A Second Chance at Hope for Incarcerated Youth A photo representing A Second Chance at Hope for Incarcerated Youth](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/EDC%20blog-SFaizullah_7.20.jpg)
Today, as we celebrate World Youth Skills Day (July 15), we shine a light on how soft skills are laying the path toward better livelihoods for those who need it the most.
![](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/ERSA.jpg)
In Mali, accelerated education is helping thousands of children get back to school.
![4 Ways to Strengthen Youth Programs in Conflict and Crisis Areas A photo of youth from Liberia representing 4 Ways to Strengthen Youth Programs in Conflict and Crisis Areas](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/Youth-in-Crisis.jpg)
Building youth programs in unstable regions can be challenging. Here are four ideas for practitioners.
![Raising an AIDS-free Generation in South Africa A photo representing Raising an AIDS-free Generation in South Africa](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/SouthAfrica_Podcast.jpg)
Taking a comprehensive approach to sexuality education may help prevent HIV and AIDS. EDC’s Viwe Mtshontshi discusses.
![A Second Chance at Hope for Incarcerated Youth A photo representing A Second Chance at Hope for Incarcerated Youth](https://main.edc.org/sites/default/files/EDC%20blog-SFaizullah_7.20.jpg)
Today, as we celebrate World Youth Skills Day (July 15), we shine a light on how soft skills are laying the path toward better livelihoods for those who need it the most.