5 Years of the GC-DWC: Research, Learnings, and Impact

This 5-Year Review offers a comprehensive look at the GC-DWC’s journey so far: the research insights, on-the-ground innovations, and systems-level impact. From literacy gains in Haiti and teacher development in Uganda, to safe school initiatives in India and policy-influencing research in Sub-Saharan Africa, this report highlights how we’re turning research into action—and creating environments where every child can thrive.

Since its inception in 2019, the GC-DWC has worked to improve the lives of children and youth facing adversity in 25 countries, developing and testing evidence-based approaches that support not only academic achievement, but also create safe, equitable, and nurturing environments. Through close collaboration with partners across the research-practice-policy spectrum, the GC-DWC translates learning into impactful programs and policies that strengthen the systems children rely on to thrive.

“This five-year review marks a significant milestone in our journey to advance the well-being and development of children worldwide,” said Neil Boothby, professor and director of the GC-DWC. “While we celebrate the progress we've made, we remain clear-eyed about the challenges ahead—poverty, conflict, displacement, and inequality—and steadfast in our commitment to advancing child-centered solutions and empowering communities to better support the next generation.”

As it looks to the future, the GC-DWC aims to deepen its role as a global research and implementation leader, building scalable, context-specific strategies that help every child reach their full potential.

Read the full Five-Year Review here: https://iei.nd.edu/sites/default/files/2025-05/5%20years%20of%20the%20GC-DWC.pdf