schools in Madagascar. There is also a considerable gender disparity both in primary and secondary education; particularly it is higher in secondary education. Moreover, the Committee is concerned that the numbers of schools are very limited especially in rural areas; that teachers are recruited by the community which has limited fund; and that schools are devoid of infrastructure, facilities and teaching materials. 39. Therefore, the Committee recommends that the State Party adopts an education policy and include in it directions and strategies on accessibility of education, increasing enrolment rate, and decreasing dropout rates. The Committee also urges the State Party to take practical measures to achieve primary education for all, including increasing the budget allocated for the education sector; removing indirect costs of education; providing better facilities and teaching materials in schools; putting in place affirmative action for girls; and providing school feeding schemes. The Committee recommends that the State Party takes the responsibility of recruiting teachers so that teachers are well trained and educated. The Committee also urges the State Party to build new schools in remote areas and to maintain the existing once with the view to decrease the teacher-student ratio and make schools more accessible. Finally, the Committee encourages the State Party to give attention to and provide for the particular needs of children with disabilities to make inclusive education a reality. H. Special Protection Measures Children in emergency situations 40. The Committee notes that there are cyclones and floods attacking schools and houses. While the Committee appreciates the actions taken by the National Office of Risk and Disasters Management, the Committee is concerned that there are no sustainable solutions to this scourge. The Committee hence recommends that the State Party fortifies its efforts on prevention measures as well as addressing the needs of children who are affected by the catastrophe. The Committee recommends that the State Party builds schools and provides housing for its population in areas where cyclones and floods are not common or less likely to happen. Additionally, in cases where such disasters materialize, the Committee urges the State Party to institute redress mechanisms such as temporary housing for those who live in the affected area; emergency food provision schemes; and re-establishment of families who have been displaced due to the phenomena. Children in armed conflicts 41. The Committee commends that the State Party sets the minimum age for military recruitment at the age of 18 and appreciates the ratification of the 2nd Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child. However, reports indicate that 10