The world is marking one year since a devastating earthquake in Nepal killed some 9,000 people.

Some one-third of those killed in the massive tremor were children, while millions were forced from their homes.

However 12 months on, United Nations body UNICEF says some modest recovery has been seen in the Himalayan nation.

It says circumstances have improved for many of those affected by the disaster, but thousands of schools still need to be rebuilt.

The children's agency is also thanking Irish people for their generous donations to the relief operation.

"In the immediate aftermath of the quake, those donations were channeled into emergency provisions like safe drinking water, medical tents and essential drugs. UNICEF was able to respond rapidly because the charity already had supplies pre-positioned in country", it says.

But it also cautions that there is a fear that children living in impoverished circumstances could be forced into child labour - including the threat of trafficking.

Children play in Barpak village, Gorkha district, Nepal | Image: © UNICEF

UNICEF Ireland executive director Peter Power has just returned from a field visit to Nepal.

"What struck me most was the fact that 8,000 schools were completely demolished in 45 seconds. That is more than all of the schools in Ireland - gone. I saw first-hand the effect that had on children", he said.

"In one village I visited, they had just built a new school when the quake hit".

"All of the children were so looking forward to moving into their new school, but that was demolished, as was their old school. To see the difference between the old sheds they are now learning in, compared to where they should have been - the children were just devastated".

UNICEF also says that parts of the country are at high risk of another earthquake.

But it adds that it is working to build up communities, so that they are prepared for any disaster that may come their way.