A fire that broke out in the office building of Roma Education Fund (REF) headquarters on Saturday, November 17, has caused major damage. No injuries were reported, but initial inspections suggest that the staff of 20+ will need to move to new premises, at least temporarily.
Smoke and fire raged for several hours, destroying the roof and the 5thfloor of the building on Terez korut. REF’s 4thfloor offices, including equipment and documentation for programs and projects in sixteen countries where REF is active, have been severely damaged. “The last few weeks of the year are always very busy, and this year will prove exceptionally challenging as we assess the situation to determine when we can return to our office space, or if a temporary move will be necessary”, according to Nadir Redzepi, Executive Director.
“Nevertheless, our donors, partners and beneficiaries should be assured that REF will continue to provide the exceptional programs and services aimed at reducing the gap in educational outcomes between Roma and non-Roma. REF’s values of tenacity, integrity, inquisitiveness, accountability and justice remain strong as ever.”
Please refer to REF’s website and social media for regular updates on the status REF operations in Budapest.
https://www.facebook.com/RomaEducationFund/
https://twitter.com/romaeducation
