Archive for category: Children

Information and stories addressing children.

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Mica Mining in Madagascar: Ending Child Labor

Mica Mining in MadagascarMadagascar, an island nation off the coast of Africa, has one of the world’s highest poverty rates, with 80.7% of its population living in poverty. This economic hardship has contributed to widespread child labor in the country’s mica mining industry. Due to weak regulations and poor enforcement of labor laws in Madagascar, an estimated 10,000 children are being exploited in mica mining.

What Is the Issue?

Mica mining is dangerous as there is a risk of “landslides, burial, physical injuries from falling into holes, respiratory infections, suffocation, ocular infections and blindness due to mica particles.” Beyond the physical dangers, child labor in the mines also deprives children of education, limiting their future opportunities.

The mica mining industry in Madagascar lacks the legal frameworks that help protect its workers and sustain the business. The volumes of mica collected in Madagascar “are exported to China at relatively low prices that lead to uneven value distribution.” This means that the people working in mines get paid lower wages and are forced to send their children to work.

Solutions

The financial burden placed on these families helps explain why it was “found that cash transfers were the most effective basis among various programmes that aim to improve access to education.” Having the finances to send children to school could significantly reduce the number of children forced into mica mining in Madagascar.

The Madagascar Shines project is a program dedicated to improving the mica mining industry in Madagascar and reducing child labor. It aims to help communities “through community engagement, coordination and capacity building.” The program was funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Its strategy targets improvement through various areas such as households and livelihood services, officials, organizations, public awareness and more.

Empowering Women

Women’s income has been shown to have a direct positive impact on their families. Building on this approach, Pact, a nonprofit organization committed to reducing child labor in mining, implements its WORTH community banking program to empower women by helping them save money, generate income and develop new skills. The program also provides key information on positive parenting, the importance of education and the dangers of child labor. By supporting women, these efforts can ultimately help reduce the number of children working in Madagascar’s mica mining industry.

Providing child care services is a crucial way to support women and their children. The nonprofit Pact is exploring two child care program models to ensure children have a safe place to go. One model involves services promoted by the private sector and local authorities. At the same time, the other would be supported by mica processing centers committed to offering safe child care options for their employees.

Good News

Positive changes are already being made to improve mica mining in Madagascar. Some mica processing centers have already agreed to undergo an analysis to implement child care centers. Additionally, “parents of 265 children in four mining communities have agreed to enroll their children in child care centers.” These are promising signs of these centers’ need for and future success.

Targeting women to reduce child labor is also showing results, as “approximately 200 women from mica households are now members of WORTH groups.” Women are being taught how to use their wages best to support their families. This will decrease the need to send children to mines. They are also learning about the importance of education for their children and the best ways to take care of their futures.

The lives of children are already being impacted, as “about 500 children are now out of mining and supported with direct educational services.” “Approximately 1,500 children from mica communities are also maintained in school.” Mica mining in Madagascar is still a significant issue impacting many families. However, there is hope for progress to be made. Continued support and awareness of this issue is vital to its continued success.

– Sydney Morrow

Sydney is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Education Divide: Why Millions of Children Lack Education

The Education Divide: Why Millions of Children Lack EducationMillions of children worldwide remain out of school due to poverty, gender inequality, conflict and lack of resources, limiting their future opportunities and economic mobility. According to UNESCO, 244 million children globally do not have access to formal education, with sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia experiencing the highest rates of out-of-school children. Education serves as one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty, as research indicates that each additional year of schooling can increase a person’s income by up to 10%. Despite international efforts to promote universal education, many barriers persist. Addressing this crisis requires targeted policy action, increased education funding and community-driven solutions to ensure that all children have access to learning opportunities.

Economic Struggles and the Cost of Education

Education offers a proven pathway out of poverty, but for families living on less than $2 a day, school costs remain out of reach. In many low-income countries, even when tuition is free, the costs of uniforms, books and transportation prevent children from attending school. According to the World Bank, students from the wealthiest households are four times as likely to complete secondary school as students from the poorest households. Without financial assistance, children from disadvantaged backgrounds are forced to drop out and work to support their families.

In Nigeria, for example, an estimated 10.5 million children are out of school, with many forced into child labor to help their families survive. The economic divide continues to limit educational access, perpetuating cycles of hardship. Governments play a key role in expanding access to education by implementing free school meals, scholarships and subsidized learning materials to remove financial barriers and increase enrollment.

Gender Inequality and Cultural Barriers

Girls in many parts of the world face unique challenges in accessing education. Deep-rooted cultural beliefs, early marriage and safety concerns often prevent girls from continuing their education. The Malala Fund reports that 120 million girls worldwide remain out of school, with South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest gender disparities.

In Afghanistan, the Taliban’s 2021 takeover led to a nationwide ban on secondary education for girls, forcing 1.4 million girls out of classrooms. Similarly, in rural India, families often prioritize their sons’ education over their daughters’, limiting girls’ opportunities for personal and economic growth. However, solutions exist. In countries like Malawi and Bangladesh, organizations have launched cash transfer programs that incentivize families to keep girls in school, significantly reducing dropout rates. Expanding such female-centered initiatives could help close the education gap for girls globally.

Lack of Infrastructure and Trained Teachers

Beyond financial challenges, many children cannot attend school simply because there are no schools nearby. In sub-Saharan Africa, more than 30% of children live more than five kilometers from the nearest school. For those who do attend, many classrooms suffer from overcrowding, a shortage of teachers and inadequate facilities.

A BBC photo essay documented the experience of Sylvia, an eight-year-old girl from Tanzania, who walks more than one and a half hours each morning to reach her classroom. While her determination is inspiring, no child should have to endure such hardships to receive an education.

Additionally, UNICEF reports that nearly 50% of schools in sub-Saharan Africa lack basic sanitation facilities, making learning especially difficult for girls once they reach puberty. Investing in infrastructure, teacher training and mobile classrooms could help bring education to underserved regions.

Conflict and Displacement: The War on Education

In war-torn areas, conflict disrupts schooling by destroying infrastructure, displacing families and creating unsafe environments for students. Schools often become targets of violence or are repurposed for military use, preventing millions of children from learning. Refugee children face even greater obstacles. According to the UNHCR, more than 15 million refugee children globally are out of school, with less than half of displaced children completing primary education. In Syria, South Sudan and Afghanistan, entire generations of children risk growing up without literacy or formal skills due to prolonged conflict. Governments and organizations could play a critical role in integrating refugee children into local school systems, establishing temporary learning centers and maintaining education continuity during emergencies.

Solutions: Bridging Education Gaps

  • Increasing Education Funding and Policy Reforms. Many governments allocate less than 4% of their GDP to education, which is far below recommended levels. Increased investment in school construction, teacher salaries and learning resources can significantly boost enrollment and learning outcomes. Additionally, policy reforms—such as removing school fees, subsidizing transportation and implementing cash transfer programs—can ensure that the poorest families have access to education.
  • Expanding Community-Based Learning Programs. NGOs play a crucial role in bridging education gaps in underserved regions. Organizations like Room to Read, UNICEF and Save the Children have developed mobile classrooms, after-school tutoring and community-run learning centers to reach children who would otherwise remain out of school. These programs provide literacy and vocational training, ensuring that even children in remote or conflict-affected areas receive some form of education.
  • Leveraging Technology for Remote Education. Technology can revolutionize education access. In countries with limited school infrastructure, digital learning programs and radio-based education initiatives have proven successful in keeping children engaged. For example, Kenya’s Tusome Initiative uses tablets and interactive software to improve literacy rates, while Bangladesh’s “TV Schools” provided distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Strengthening Protections for Refugee and Conflict-Affected Children. Allocating emergency funds for temporary classrooms, teacher training and psychological support can help displaced children continue their education despite crises. Expanding programs that integrate refugee children into local schools—as seen in Jordan and Lebanon’s education reforms for Syrian refugees—can also provide long-term solutions for displaced learners.

Looking Ahead

Bridging the global education gap requires sustained investment in resources, targeted policy reforms and innovative learning solutions. Efforts to improve school accessibility, enhance teacher training and integrate technology have already expanded opportunities for many children. Addressing the needs of students in conflict zones and underserved communities could be essential for breaking cycles of poverty and ensuring long-term development.

– Bailie Cross

Bailie is based in Pensacola, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Aruba

Charities Operating in ArubaAruba is a well known and beautiful island in the Caribbean. Its population is only around 125,000. However, it is estimated around 1.5 million people visit the island each year, that was until a global pandemic hit. COVID-19 devastated Aruba’s economy and is still in recovery from it, as the country relies heavily on tourism for income. The good news is, while the country is still recovering, there are many charities on the island that can help with issues such as food insecurity, health and education. Here is a list of five charities operating in Aruba right now.

5 Charities Operating in Aruba

  1. HIAS – HIAS is an organization which opened its Aruba office in 2019, and works to create programs to help the island’s most vulnerable groups, such as refugees fleeing violence and poverty, single women, the elderly and those with disabilities and medical conditions. HIAS has implemented economic inclusion programs that have helped hundreds of people living in Aruba by providing food vouchers, school supplies as well as medical and hygiene kits to those living in poverty on the island. Through all its programs, it has been able to give direct support to 3,005 in Aruba in 2023.
  2. Kids Inc. Aruba – This organization was founded in 2006 and offers classes for kids in Aruba with newer educational practices so they have a leg up for modern day and future opportunities. It focuses mainly on creating a new generation of hard working and smart entrepreneurs and teaching kids financial literacy. It offers multiple programs which advocate for smart spending and have set many children up for financial responsibility. 
  3. Red Cross Aruba – The Red Cross in Aruba helps with first aid and relief during natural disasters, and also has a long term impact through its CPR, AED and first aid training. It also holds events to help the impoverished on the island. Events like their “drive by for back 2 school” aim to provide school supplies for children in need. It also holds a monthly charity bazaar, selling donated items to raise money to provide food for families in need. 
  4. Kiwanis Club of Aruba – This club, founded in 1964, is dedicated to providing Aruba with necessary community service with a specific focus on children. It holds events and galas to fundraise and then use the money to hold different events for those in need. The club’s annual back to school drive donates clothes and school materials to children in primary school. Furthermore, it offers them a fun experience or activity on the day. Its members also give free services such as dental care to children who would otherwise go without it. The community as a whole averages 7,300,000 hours of community service a year and each member reaches about 100 kids.
  5. Micky’s Foundation – Micky’s Foundation started in 2014 after a family in need recognized the lack of treatment for specialized pediatric therapy in Aruba. They started the foundation which has been able to provide free intensive pediatric therapy to those in need. The foundation not only offers therapy but also focuses on educating those of pediatric therapy and why it is necessary, as well as lobbying to change the systems in place that withhold it from those in need. Since its beginning, the Foundation has been able to help 203 kids with more than 22,500 hours of free therapy. 

Looking Ahead

These five charities operating in Aruba give lasting services and contributions to those on the island. They have been able to help countless people, and continue to do so in their work. These charities are operating to improve Aruba. They do so through their positive missions and goals to improve the health of the island and its people

– Cheyenne Weller

Cheyenne is based in Boston, MA, USA  and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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5 Charities Operating in Senegal

Charities Operating in Senegal
Senegal, the westernmost country in Africa, is a country of rich history and culture, however many of the Senegalese people continue to face the challenges of poverty despite its economic progress in recent years. As of 2024, nearly 36% of the population lived below the national poverty line, with rural communities being the most vulnerable. Food insecurity is one of the most common issues, and malnutrition is a large concern, with 66% “of children under five years old suffering from anemia,” a condition that impacts how children grow and develop. While the country has made strides in health care there were an estimated 44,000 citizens living with HIV in 2023. Despite these difficulties, Senegal is full of resilience with many charities operating in Senegal to provide for those in need. Below are five charities operating in Senegal. They are dedicated to uplifting communities and making a difference in Senegal.

Food for Life Senegal

Food for Life Senegal is an international charity that focuses on combating hunger and malnutrition. This organization is dedicated to providing meals to the affected communities with the hope that it will lead to healthier living. Aside from combating hunger, the organization also looks to further health care and educational resources. Food for Life Senegal sees how all of these areas are interconnected, so by focusing on all three they are able to create a more lasting impact on selected communities.

The organization also identifies the most in need communities when looking for areas to assist. Its work not only relieves immediate hunger, but also teaches able community members agricultural practices so the community can become more sustainable.

Caritas Internationalis

Caritas Internationalis has had a large role in humanitarian aid since it received recognition in 1966. This global Catholic relief organization provides emergency assistance and long-term development programs to support communities. Their main focus is poverty reduction in the eyes of emergency assistance when addressing different public health crises, with most of their focus going to people living with HIV/AIDS.

Caritas Internationalis helps to empower these extremely poverty-stricken communities in Senegal by providing health care. Whether it be short or long term, this organization is one of the top providers in health care for developing countries.

ADIFS

Empowering women is the overall theme of the Association pour le Développement Intégral de la Femme au Sénégal (ADIFS). This organization looks to better the lives of Senegalese women by offering education, vocational training and essential health services. This helps the women of Senegal become more independent, as well as becoming better equipped to provide for themselves or their family.

In addition to skill training, this organization helps to create campaigns that raise awareness for issues like “gender-based violence, female genital mutilation, and early marriage.” The combined areas help to empower the women of Senegal by providing them with the tools, freedom and support necessary to succeed.

Plan International Senegal

Plan International is a global organization that fights poverty and inequality through targeted interventions for children. In Senegal, the organization focuses on providing educational opportunities for children as well as improving access to health care and other important services. The belief behind this strategy is that children are the path to creating a greater future.

Sahel École Sans Frontières

Sahel École Sans Frontières (SESF) is a grassroots organization committed to improving access to quality education in the more rural areas of Senegal. Founded in 2007, SESF has played an important role in building schools and creating educational opportunities for the underserved communities of Senegal. Helping create the infrastructure needed is one of the largest challenges that Senegal faces in terms of quality education.

Looking Ahead

These five charities operating in Senegal are committed to helping the country of Senegal create the path to becoming a more sustainable nation. Whether it is through food assistance, healthcare, education or women’s empowerment, the efforts they make are shaping a more sustainable future. By supporting the work of these charities, people worldwide can contribute to meaningful change for the Senegalese people.

– Joey Picolli

Joey is based in Boulder, CO, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Learning Poverty Among the Bidoon in Kuwait

Bidoon in Kuwait
Kuwait is known as one of the world’s richest countries, though more than half of children over the age of 10 are not reading proficiently. This phenomenon called learning poverty is unfairly affecting the children of Kuwait, highlighting the gaps in education equity and quality. In particular, learning poverty is affecting Bidoon children, a marginalized group in Kuwait. Here is more information about learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait.

Elements of Child Poverty in Kuwait

Child poverty and overall poverty levels in Kuwait are reportedly just above 0%, according to the Nations Encyclopedia. Though experiencing levels of economic abundance, that has proved inefficient when addressing education poverty. Learning poverty runs through Kuwait’s youth, especially hurting marginalized groups like the Bidoon. 

The Bidoon (short for “bidoon jinsiya”) in Kuwait are descendants of undocumented individuals who did not gain Iraqi citizenship at the state’s founding. Despite living in a wealthy region like Kuwait, they face high poverty rates and limited accessibility to resources as stateless individuals.

Kuwait ranks above average among the Middle East and North Africa (MNA) countries when measuring child learning poverty. The World Bank April 2024 Kuwait Learning Poverty Brief shows that 51% of late primary age children in Kuwait are not proficient in reading. Kuwait measures 2% less than the MNA average of children in learning poverty.

Although this is statistically above average, stable education is what children in Kuwait need to improve overall health and prosperity. Ensuring children are in school relates directly to social challenges facing Kuwait families such as early marriage, mental health and child nutrition, according to the World Bank’s “From Learning Recovery to Education Transformation” executive summary.

What is Learning Poverty?

Learning poverty is the inability to read and understand proficiently by the age of 10. The World Bank measures learning poverty through assessments and enrollment data, concluding that 53% of the MNA faces learning poverty.

Factors that also contribute to learning poverty are learning deprivation and school deprivation. Learning deprivation is the share of students reading below the minimum proficiency level, which exposes the inequality and disadvantage that the poor in Kuwait face. School deprivation represents children who are not enrolled in any schooling.

Learning and school deprivation pose a threat to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which the United Nations set in place in 2015 to unite the globe in successfully attaining prosperity for all by 2030. The fourth goal is for inclusive and quality education for all.

In Kuwait’s case, learning deprivation for April 2024 was measured at 49% and school deprivation was 3%. In order to ensure education is a priority, each child needs the opportunity.

How are Bidoon Children Facing Disadvantages?

An article by Aisha Elgayar for Arij emphasized the difficult lifestyle of the Bidoon children, described as “living in the shadows” of a lavish country surrounding them. Inherited restrictions put on them keep them from receiving basic rights like education, general employment and birth/marriage certificates.

Along with restricted access to economic freedom and political rights, the Bidoon also face health concerns due to limited supply of fresh water and electricity. The lack of data regarding the Bidoon community also reflects in the lack of aid they receive.

One can see child poverty in Kuwait through the Bidoon population, which was between 83,000 and 120,000 as of August 2024. The continued negligence to these undocumented children indicate ill-equipped schools and unequal circumstances.

Solutions

UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank created the RAPID strategy in response to COVID-19 to solve learning issues at the source for each child. This framework represents mending the five parts of education reconstruction; Reach, Access, Prioritize, Increase and Develop. Before COVID-19, findings showed that learning at an accelerated rate was possible in the Middle East. The steps from this program ensure that each student is practicing foundational skills.

RAPID prioritizes reaching every child, assessing learning levels regularly, focusing on teaching the fundamentals, increasing efficiency of instruction and developing psychosocial health.

In regards to marginalized and stateless groups such as the Bidoon population, the RAPID strategy works to transform the way these children learn and breaks down barriers that hold them back from accessing education. The World Bank and UNICEF support a “reach-all” initiative, entailing multiple modes of learning and flexible learning programs. UNICEF’s RAPID’s 2024 findings show that the RAPID framework has been established in Kuwait.

After Kuwait shut the Bidoon out of public education in 1992, efforts have been made to advance their right to education. For example, in 2014, the Katateeb Al-Bidoon Initiative, which Yusuf al-Bishiq led, created an after-school program for Bidoon children for one short semester, but its lifespan provides insight into how a transformative future is possible. Katabeeb al-Bidoon embraces a practical system that could be successful if implemented in the future.

Looking Ahead

While statistically, Kuwait is one of the leading countries in the Middle East in wealth and income, learning poverty highly impacts Bidoon children. Hopefully, UNICEF’s RAPID strategy will eliminate learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait moving forward.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Intergenerational Poverty: From Childhood to Adulthood

Intergenerational Poverty: From Childhood to Adulthood Intergenerational poverty refers to poverty that persists across multiple generations within families, particularly in developing countries. According to the World Bank, 70% of global poverty is concentrated in low- and middle-income countries, where systemic barriers hinder upward mobility. Children born into poverty are far more likely to experience economic hardship as adults due to limited access to education, health care and stable employment. Research has revealed that prolonged exposure to poverty during childhood can significantly decrease opportunities for better livelihoods later in life.

The Impact of Poverty on Child Brain Development

Early childhood development is particularly vulnerable to the effects of poverty. A significant portion of brain formation occurs in the first six years of life and living in impoverished conditions can disrupt this critical process. According to Very Well Mind, children raised in poverty often face developmental delays caused by stress, lack of resources and unstable living conditions. On a neurological level, children may experience reduced white and gray matter volume, which affects memory, movement, emotions and cognitive information processing. Mentally, children in poverty are at a higher risk of developing conditions such as anxiety and depression, which can persist into adulthood.

Poverty’s Long-Lasting Effects Into Adulthood

Studies reveal that the longer a child lives in poverty, the greater their likelihood of remaining in poverty as an adult. A study published in Frontline found that children who experienced poverty for 8 to 14 years were significantly more likely to face economic hardship between the ages of 20 and 25.

Reports from the Urban Institute reveal that only a small percentage of children in poverty complete their education. High school graduation rates are notably lower among children raised in poverty compared to their more affluent peers, limiting their opportunities for higher education and better-paying jobs. Physical health is another area heavily impacted. Poor families often live in unsafe housing, increasing risks of accidents, injuries and chronic health issues such as heart disease. Children from impoverished backgrounds are more likely to suffer from poor nutrition, reduced health care access and long-term medical complications.

Solutions for Breaking the Cycle

Addressing intergenerational poverty requires both immediate relief and long-term strategies. A report titled A Roadmap to Reducing Child Poverty emphasizes the importance of providing parents with financial resources to meet their children’s basic needs. By alleviating parental stress, children are given better opportunities to thrive. However, experts also stress the need for sustainable programs that focus on health, education and long-term well-being.

5 Organizations Fighting Poverty Globally

Several organizations are working globally to address poverty and its long-term effects:

  1. Oxfam International. A global confederation of 19 organizations working in 90 countries, Oxfam provides crisis relief and practical solutions to poverty.
  2. Organization for Poverty Alleviation and Development (OPAD). An NGO promoting human rights, sustainable development and poverty eradication through education, health programs and economic initiatives.
  3. Concern Worldwide. Operating for more than 50 years in 50 countries, Concern Worldwide focuses on empowering local communities to address poverty caused by natural disasters, hunger and conflict.
  4. End Poverty Now (EPN). A Canadian NGO that unites nonprofits to create sustainable solutions. EPN ensures continued support for the programs it initiates, fostering lasting impacts.
  5. Global Citizen. With a mission to eradicate extreme poverty by 2030, Global Citizen mobilizes global citizens to advocate for systemic change and hold world leaders accountable.

These organizations play critical roles in combating the many forms of poverty, offering both immediate assistance and sustainable pathways to self-sufficiency.

Looking Ahead

Breaking intergenerational poverty involves targeted interventions that prioritize children’s development and family stability. Effective strategies address systemic challenges while empowering communities through education, health care and economic opportunities. By combining immediate aid with sustainable solutions, global initiatives play a crucial role in fostering long-term change. These ongoing efforts offer hope for a future where poverty no longer determines the opportunities and outcomes of successive generations.

– Sadie Treadwell

Sadie is based in Grovetown, GA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Save the Children’s Jumper Day Fights Child Poverty

How Save the Children’s Jumper Day Fights Child PovertyWith one in five children living in extreme poverty, Save the Children provides aid, protection and emergency assistance to children worldwide. The organization has supported 47 million children by ensuring access to education, food, clean water and sanitation in safe, healthy environments. The annual Christmas Jumper Day, held on Dec. 12, encourages participants to wear a Christmas Jumper and donate £2. Since its launch in 2012, the event has raised £30 million in the United Kingdom, helping fund the charity’s global initiatives.

Child Poverty

Child poverty is a global issue that affects low-, middle- and high-income countries to varying degrees. An estimated 1 billion children worldwide experience multidimensional poverty, lacking essentials such as food, clean water, shelter, education and health care. Additionally, 333 million children live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than $2.15 per day. While extreme poverty is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, millions of children in some of the world’s wealthiest nations also face poverty, underscoring the universal nature of this challenge.

The Day’s Impact

Hosted in schools and workplaces, Christmas Jumper Day raises funds and increases awareness about child poverty and efforts to combat it. In 2023, 1.5 million children and teachers, along with 27,000 workplaces, raised £3 million. The funds support initiatives such as training midwives, keeping children in school, reuniting families separated by conflict, predicting food crises to deliver timely aid and ensuring access to essential medications.

Christmas Jumper Day also supports Save the Children’s Emergency Fund, which aids children living in crisis zones like Gaza, Lebanon and Ukraine. The charity provides emergency supplies, cash assistance, education and mental health support to children in these regions. In Gaza, Save the Children offers medical care for children with severe injuries, mental health services and safe spaces for maternity health care. In October 2024, the organization opened a medical center in Khan Younis, treating more than 800 patients. Funds raised through the day will enable the charity to expand its medical services, a critical need with more than 14,100 children killed in Gaza.

Celebrity Involvement

To raise awareness for the day, celebrities including Olly Murs, Myleene Klass, Alison Hammond and Laura Whitmore modeled their Christmas jumpers to encourage fundraising and participation. When asked about the day, Nadia Sawalha commented: “Wearing a jumper and donating a small amount has the power to transform children’s lives for good. Christmas Jumper Day 2024 introduced a new Shaun the Sheep animation, “The Knit Before Christmas,” designed to engage children ahead of the event. The animation follows the beloved characters as they prepare for the big day. Actress Ashley Jensen premiered the animation at Launde Primary School in Leicester, which was the top fundraiser in 2023, raising £3,744.84.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing efforts by Save the Children demonstrate the importance of innovative fundraising campaigns in addressing the challenges faced by children living in poverty. Events like Christmas Jumper Day connect communities to a global cause, generating resources that support life-changing programs. By integrating public participation and targeted aid, the organization continues to provide critical assistance to children in need, fostering hope and resilience in some of the most vulnerable regions worldwide.

– Ellie Western

Ellie is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health, Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Bridge International Academies: Education and the Poverty Cycle

Bridge International AcademiesAccess to quality education can transform lives, offering children in low-income communities a way out of poverty. Studies reveal that individuals with higher levels of education earn more, live healthier lives and contribute to their communities. However, educational inequality still hinders millions of children from accessing quality schooling, making it challenging to break the poverty cycle. The following explores the success stories of organizations like Bridge International Academies, where education has changed communities and highlights the obstacles that still prevent it from reaching all who need it. 

Transforming Lives in Low-Income Communities

The link between education and poverty alleviation is well-documented. Children who receive quality education acquire skills to secure better jobs, earn higher incomes and lift themselves out of poverty. In countries such as Bangladesh and Kenya, organizations have invested in educating children from impoverished backgrounds to create generational change.

For example, the nonprofit organization Bridge International Academies in Kenya provides affordable, high-quality education in underserved communities. With more than 500 schools across Kenya, Uganda and Nigeria, Bridge International has helped students achieve scores significantly above national averages, creating a pathway out of poverty for thousands of students. Through affordable tuition, comprehensive teacher training and tech-integrated classrooms, Bridge International exemplifies how education can change the trajectory of low-income communities.

In Bangladesh, BRAC operates one of the largest education programs in the world. BRAC’s education model empowers young girls in rural villages to attend primary and secondary school. BRAC has proven that education dramatically reduces poverty and gender inequality: its alumni reveal a 30% increase in household income compared to nonparticipants, effectively breaking the poverty cycle within these communities. By prioritizing girls’ education, BRAC addresses poverty and promotes gender equity. 

Challenges

Despite these successes, significant obstacles remain in delivering quality education to all children in poverty. In many developing countries, children face barriers, including inadequate school infrastructure, a shortage of qualified teachers and insufficient government funding.

  • Inadequate Funding for Education Programs. Underfunded schools lack necessary resources like textbooks, desks and classroom materials, limiting students’ learning experiences. In Sub-Saharan Africa, about 20% of primary school-age children are out of school, largely due to underfunded education systems. Low-income communities often depend on external aid, which can be inconsistent or insufficient to meet UNICEF’s demand.
  • Teacher Shortages and Training Gaps. In many impoverished regions, schools face severe teacher shortages and available teachers may lack proper training. A well-trained teacher improves student outcomes, but in places like rural India and Sub-Saharan Africa, underqualified teachers remain a common challenge. In response, organizations such as Teach For All recruit and train local educators to improve teaching quality in low-income communities.
  • Gender Inequality in Education Access. Girls in low-income regions face additional hurdles, such as early marriage, household responsibilities and cultural biases that prioritize boys’ education over girls’. According to UNESCO, girls make up 48% of the global out-of-school population. Programs like BRAC’s girls’ education initiatives work to reverse these ongoing trends by ensuring girls receive equal access to education, empowering them to contribute economically and socially to their communities.
  • Impact of Conflict on Education. Conflict-affected regions suffer severe setbacks in education access, as schools may be destroyed, occupied or unsafe for children. For instance, in countries like Syria and Yemen, millions of children cannot attend school due to ongoing violence. Organizations like UNICEF provide emergency education resources in these areas, but the instability makes it challenging to establish consistent educational progress.

Moving Forward

Ending poverty through education requires global cooperation and sustained investment in educational access and quality. Governments, NGOs and private organizations must work together to fund schools, train teachers and ensure equitable access to education. Programs that prioritize marginalized groups, improve teaching quality and address barriers like gender inequality and conflict could create the most substantial impact.

Countries that prioritize education see the rewards in their workforce, economy and social development. Bridge International Academies, BRAC and Teach For All demonstrate that breaking the poverty cycle through education is possible. While significant challenges remain, these success stories underscore the transformative power of education in reducing poverty globally.

– Olivia Barker

Olivia is based in the UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Fight Against Child Poverty: UNICEF’s World Children’s Day

The Fight Against Child Poverty: UNICEF’s World Children’s DayWith an estimated 333 million children living in extreme poverty, World Children’s Day raises awareness and funds for children facing poverty and crises worldwide. Observed annually on Nov. 20, the World Children’s Day marks UNICEF’s global day of action and commemorates the anniversaries of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the United Nations (U.N.) General Assembly’s adoption of the declaration.

As a U.N. charity, UNICEF operates in more than 190 countries, defending children’s rights and ensuring access to education, health care, nutrition, shelter and protection from conflict. The organization amplifies the voices of children living in poverty and advocates for global action to combat child poverty.

UNICEF and Celebrity Support

To mark World Children’s Day 2024, UNICEF’s Celebrity Ambassadors led a fundraising campaign to support the organization’s work. President Olivia Colman and Ambassadors Robbie Williams, Andy Murray, Ramla Ali and Claudia Schiffer collaborated to design T-shirts sold to raise donations. All profits went directly to helping children in crisis, with a focus on Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine.

Reflecting on the campaign, Claudia Schiffer said, “I hope [the T-shirts] will raise vital funds for UNICEF’s work for children, protecting their rights, so they can experience things all children need […] some in the most difficult circumstances.” To further support the fight against child poverty, UNICEF hosted the “Once Upon Our Time” celebrity gala at Frameless in London to mark World Children’s Day. The evening featured celebrations, stories from children impacted by UNICEF’s work and a celebrity auction.

Samar’s story, an 11-year-old among 5 million children displaced by conflict in Sudan, was a key focus of the event. UNICEF highlighted its efforts to provide safe spaces and improve access to mental health support for children in the region. The live auction included exclusive experiences, such as a golfing session with James Nesbitt and a meet-and-greet with UNICEF President Olivia Colman. The gala raised £670,000 to support the organization’s World Children’s Day 2024 fundraising initiatives.

World Children’s Day Helps Children in Gaza

UNICEF used World Children’s Day to spotlight the urgent need for humanitarian aid to support children in Gaza. At least 14,000 children have been killed and nine in 10 residents are displaced. Children face extreme poverty, with little access to food, water, shelter and health care.

World Children’s Day raised awareness and funds to provide critical aid in Gaza. With 96% of the population experiencing extreme food insecurity, UNICEF has delivered nutrition services to families and screened more than 125,000 children for malnutrition. Additionally, the organization has also ensured safe water for more than 800,000 children and continues to distribute medical supplies, polio vaccinations, hygiene kits and basic sanitation support.

Other Charities Supporting World Children’s Day

Save the Children plays a vital role in fighting child poverty worldwide, working to ensure children have access to food, education, health care and social protection. The charity focuses heavily on supporting children during crises when they are most vulnerable. For World Children’s Day 2024, Save the Children joined calls for educational reform, the reopening of schools and improved access to health care.

World Vision actively supports World Children’s Day and the fight against child poverty. As a Christian charity, it focuses on aiding vulnerable children and providing immediate relief during crises. World Vision has worked with communities for up to 15 years, ensuring children are safe and healthy before concluding its efforts. On World Children’s Day, the charity highlights progress in improving children’s lives and advocates for investments in their futures. World Vision has helped more than 200 million children globally, with its feeding program achieving an 89% cure rate and its tuberculosis program reaching an 88% success rate.

Looking Forward

The annual World Children’s Day helps charities like UNICEF, Save the Children and World Vision help children most vulnerable in the fight against global poverty. Other charities assisting the cause include Feed the Children, Plan International and Mission Together. The day serves as recognition for their work and an opportunity to increase fundraising for future aid and assistance. 

– Ellie Western

Ellie is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Save The Children Supporting Communities in Gaza

Supporting Communities in Gaza​​Gaza has a population of 2.3 million and is one of the “most densely populated” regions in the world. Hamas, a Palestinian nationalist organization, has been governing Gaza since 2006. Tensions between Hamas and Israel have led to a cycle of violence and governance challenges in Gaza. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, and both sides have since engaged in heavy fighting. This conflict has led to widespread civilian casualties and created a humanitarian crisis. Children in Gaza are facing displacement, famine, disease and many other life-threatening challenges. Aid organizations are facing many security issues. This article outlines how Save The Children is supporting communities in Gaza.

Supporting Communities in Gaza

Save The Children has been present in Gaza since 1973 and has been particularly prominent in the territory since October 7, 2023. There is growing demand for humanitarian aid but is hard to provide without a ceasefire. Despite this, Save The Children works tirelessly to provide aid to as many people as possible. Over the past year, Save The Children has reached more than 688,000 people and focuses on helping children in Gaza.

Nutrition Services

Malnutrition is widespread in Gaza and can lead to diminished health in children. Save The Children offers nutritional services to support the children of Gaza. It screens children and adults for malnutrition, especially targeting children under 5. This allows them to give the best treatment and chance of survival. The organization distributes food to as many regions as possible despite the security risks imposed by the conflict. They provide mothers with breastfeeding advice, promoting and supporting best breastfeeding practices. Save The Children also provides nutritional education to families and community workers to promote balanced meals to improve children’s health.

Physical Health Services

Save The Children works to provide physical health support to children. It distributes vaccinations to prevent the spread of life-threatening diseases, such as polio. It ensures that many children receive clean water and sanitation resources, such as essential toiletries and household utilities. The organization has built a maternity unit to ensure mothers have a safe environment in which to deliver their babies. A paediatric center has also been developed to treat children suffering from injuries such as burns caused by conflicts.

Tima, a Gazan citizen, found out she was pregnant in July 2023. In October 2023, Tima was afraid for the delivery and safety of her baby. Save The Children’s emergency maternity unit provided Tima with a safe place to give birth. In April 2024, Tima gave birth to baby Lana. Lana was born healthy but after a few days out of hospital, living in unsanitary conditions, Lana became unwell with sepsis. Save The Children gave Lana the antibiotic treatment she needed to survive.

Mental Health and Shelter Services

Save The Children provides mental health services to children who have suffered violence, displacement and trauma. It has built safe environments for those facing displacement from their homes and families. The organization has also developed temporary educational units to facilitate ongoing learning during the conflict, according to its website.

Save The Children has provided resources for temporary shelters for those facing displacement. It has supplied families with cash to purchase essential basics and build a more liveable shelter. Resources such as sanitation and hygiene kits have helped families to develop safer living environments, according to its website.

Looking Ahead

Save The Children is desperately seeking a ceasefire to be able to deliver aid more safely. However, such organizations face continual risk from the conflict, making it more difficult to reach people in need. Once aid is more readily available, future strategies have been developed to assist Gaza’s children further. The organization hopes to provide more permanent infrastructures for hospitals and educational units, distribute water storage tanks for longer-lasting sanitation and build more resilient shelters for displaced families.

– Millie Trussler

Millie is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash