The U.S. government today announced an additional $6 million grant from USAID to UNICEF to provide education to children and youth affected by the conflict.

These funds are expected to support 200,000 children across the country.

In a statement, USAID says demobilized child soldiers and other out-of-school children in Pibor will also benefit from this initiative.

U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan Molly Phee says her government is determined to help ensure that this generation of children does not suffer because of the failure of their leaders.

“Educating the next generation is the foundation of a peaceful and prosperous future for any country,” she added.

The additional contribution brings USAID’s total grant to UNICEF for emergency education in South Sudan over two years to $23.5 million.