Shakira has pledged an initial $1.25m to help rebuild schools damaged by the devastating earthquake that struck western Colombia, turning her latest visit to her home country into a major education relief effort.

The Colombian singer travelled to Quibdó, the capital of Chocó, last month, where she visited areas affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on August 10. The disaster caused widespread destruction across western Colombia, damaging homes, schools and hospitals and killing hundreds of people.

During her visit, Shakira toured damaged classrooms and met students and educators. Nearly 200 schools in Chocó have reported damage following the earthquake. The singer's commitment will support efforts to repair and rebuild educational facilities so children can return to classrooms.

Speaking to journalists during the visit, she said, "Every day that children don't go to school is a day they miss out on their future." Shakira said while discussing the area and its children, "I really want to see it rebuild again."