Archive for category: Education

Information and stories on education.

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How Gerando Falcões Is Transforming Communities in Brazilian Favelas

Brazilian Favelas
In Brazil, more than 11 million people live in poverty in a record number of 6,329 favelas. Brazilian favelas are densely packed areas of poorly planned urban housing on the outskirts of cities across Brazil. Job opportunities in favelas are limited, and clean water and sanitation systems can be hard to come by. For many favela residents, Gerando Falcões is a way for them to break through the cycle of poverty. It aims to “put poverty in favelas in a museum before Elon Musk colonizes Mars.” 

Gerando Falcões (Generating Falcons)

The number of people living in favelas increased 108% from 2010 to 2019 and has only worsened in recent years due to the pandemic. When Edu Lyra started Gerando Falcões in 2012, it was a small organization helping kids in favelas build brighter futures. Today, Gerando Falcões has grown to impact more than 6,000 favelas in 26 states across Brazil and works with 1,280 NGOs. Gerando Falcões is a Brazilian social development organization aiming to end favelas’ poverty. It brings education, economic development and citizenship services to impoverished people stuck in a cycle of poverty. Gerando Falcões works with favela leaders and locals who all dream of ending poverty in the Brazilian favelas. 

Favela 3D

Favela 3D is Gerando Falcões’ largest project. The three Ds stand for dignify, digitize and develop. Favela 3D is designed to transform favelas and give the residents a better quality of life. Under the Favela 3D project, favela residents work directly with Gerando Falcões to create urban interventions and affordable housing units. Gerando Falcões believes that the locals should completely control their community development. Favela 3D then promotes innovative technology solutions that allow favela residents to generate income through entrepreneurial projects. Within the first six months of urban intervention, favelas see a rise in income. 

The Favela 3D project implements various solutions and opportunities that lead to social development. Favela 3D gives residents access to health care, citizenship, children’s education, women’s autonomy and sport. Favela 3D tailors family-specific needs through The Family Take-Off Plan. All of these things that Favela 3D offers can lead to long-term stability and a culture of peace within the Brazilian favelas. 

Falcons University

Gerando Falcões started Falcons University in 2020, intending to help favela residents break through the cycle of poverty. Falcons University educates children, young adults and favela leaders on skills and techniques necessary for overcoming poverty.

Favela leaders receive training on various subjects, including favela expertise, public policies and technological and innovation skills. These skills set them on a path toward community development. Falcons University has already trained more than 100 favela leaders on community development strategies and hopes to continue training more. 

Falcons University’s youth program teaches kids core competencies and socio-economic skills. Children can learn basic technological skills and specific skills that interest them. Children are taught the 10 National Common Curriculum (BNCC) competencies. Through education, children in favelas can take control of their lives and begin to see a brighter future for themselves. Falcons University also offers young adults the chance to learn professional skills that they can use to benefit themselves and their community. 

– Jack Wells
Photo: Flickr

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How MIET AFRICA Is Making a Difference

MIET AfricaWhile many nonprofits do great work that impacts the lives of many people, not all nonprofit organizations receive an adequate amount of spotlight for their work. This article puts a spotlight on MIET AFRICA, a nonprofit organization based in Durban, South Africa, with a mission to better the lives of all children by providing them with access to quality education. 

History

While it is a nonprofit today, the MIET AFRICA organization began as a research initiative funded by the Independent Development Trust that aimed to understand the use of popular culture and media in learning and education. The organization specifically focused on schools in the rural parts of what is now KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). 

In 1996, the Media in Education Trust (MiET) was established. Under the leadership of Thuli Dlamini, Wilna Botha and Lynn van der Elst, MIET AFRICA came to be soon after. While MIET AFRICA is based in South Africa, its reach expands throughout and beyond the African continent. Two of the organization’s primary funders are the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Royal Netherlands Embassy (RNE). 

Who They Help

When it comes to the people they are looking to provide support to, MIET AFRICA’s target population is youth from the SADC region, the area of the Southern African Development Community, which extends from the DRC in the north to South Africa in the south. MIET AFRICA has currently partnered with 15 African countries and impacted the lives of over 200,000 children. 

Oftentimes, many of the children who MIET AFRICA helps are living in poverty. About one-third of the people in the SADC region live in poverty. The connection between poverty and education is quite strong. 

Areas of Focus

MIET AFRICA has several focus areas: 

  • Addressing barriers to learning and development. One of MIET AFRICA’s main goals is to dismantle the systemic barriers that prevent all children from being able to learn.
  • Enhancing the quality of education. Through research and innovation, MIET AFRICA aims to strengthen schools in order to ensure that children are receiving the best education possible.
  • Youth development. While MIET AFRICA’s main goal is to address education-related issues, they acknowledge that SADC youth face a lot of barriers that impact their lives more generally.

From health issues to high unemployment rates, MIET AFRICA aims to provide children with the best opportunities in order to advance their development.

Programs

In order to fulfill the goals of each focus area, MIET AFRICA has developed a total of 37 programs since its founding. At the moment, 12 programs are still running: 

  • The Amani Project
  • The Boys’ Vulnerability Study
  • The Creative Arts Support Programme
  • Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in African Schools
  • Inclusive Education in Action (uThukela)
  • Strengthening School-Based Health, Education and Nutrition Systems
  • Maths 4 All
  • The Professional Learning Communities Establishment Programme
  • The Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) Programme
  • The ReadytoWork Programme
  • Safeguard Young People SYP
  • Prevent Violence in Schools. Learners Take Action

Here is some information about a few of these programs.

  • The Amani Project – This program teaches children about music, emotional intelligence and gender equity. It is funded by the U.S.-based organization Children in Harmony, which “believes that making music with young people can lead to a more equitable and just world.” 
  • Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in African Schools – This program aims to prioritize water, sanitation and hygiene in schools by teaching children about hygienic practices and providing them with hygiene products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and soap. Partnering with UNICEF and the Mpumalanga Department of Education, ideas such as group handwashing stations have been implemented in schools to promote proper hygiene and sanitation.
  • Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) Programme – This program aims to empower and decrease risk for young girls and women and is funded by the Global Fund. This program has four goals: 
    1. Increase retention in school.
    2. Decrease HIV incidence.
    3. Decrease teenage pregnancy.
    4. Increase economic opportunities.

These are just a few of the many excellent programs MIET AFRICA has implemented in order to directly impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of children in the SADC region.

Looking Ahead

Many approaches are being taken to make education accessible to all children. Hopefully, the work of organizations such as MIET AFRICA can work as a catalyst for change in the circumstances many children must endure.

– Nicole Alexander
Photo: Wikimedia

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3 Key Facts About the Safe Schools Declaration

Safe Schools DeclarationOn the International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres spoke to the General Assembly about maintaining education in communities affected by conflict. Citing a recent report by the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA), Guterres spoke on the increase in attacks on education (3,000 in 2022) and the need to “dramatically” improve support and increase investment for the 224 million children who require education support as a result of national conflict. In this call for action, Guterres urged all countries to endorse the Safe Schools Declaration, a political commitment to providing and protecting stable education across the globe. Here are three facts about the Safe Schools Declaration.

The Safe Schools Declaration Has 4 Central Commitments 

While the efforts of countries, charities and NGOs endorsing the Safe Schools Declaration cover a wide range of issues, all actions tend to fall under the four main commitments of the document. According to the GCPEA, these are:

  1. Every child has the right to an education free of violent threats.
  2. Every member of the teaching staff has the right to work under safe and secure conditions.
  3. Every school should be a place of protection and present students with the opportunity to achieve, even in times of war.
  4. Every university should be a place where students and academics can think critically and independently, widening their basis of knowledge. 

The Declaration Has Broad International Support

As of 2023, 118 countries have endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration. Since its conception in May 2015 at a conference in Oslo, Norway, many countries have signed the Declaration, committing themselves to its key aims. The list includes two permanent members of the UN Security Council — France and the United Kingdom. Upon signing, the government of a country publicly affirms its most significant message: any attack on schools — or use of schools for military purposes — is unethical. Alongside this agreement, several countries have also hosted the International Safe Schools Conference since 2015, including Argentina in 2017, Spain in 2019 and Nigeria in 2021. 

The Safe Schools Declaration Combats Global Poverty

In a humanitarian sense, the work of the Declaration contributes to the alleviation of poverty worldwide; poverty is not only monetary. In April 2021, the World Bank published a brief on “learning poverty,” which outlined how education deficiency poses a threat to countries looking to increase human capital and succeed in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The World Bank calculates a country’s official level of learning poverty by considering both learning deprivation (measured by reading proficiency levels) and schooling deprivation (measured by the number of out-of-school children). Before the COVID-19 pandemic had even set in, as much as 57% of 10-year-olds in low- and middle-income countries could not “read and understand a simple text,” the assessment for learning poverty, according to the World Bank. 

Without a doubt, both kinds of deprivation are heightened when military conflict and displacement disrupt education. A commitment to the Safe Schools Declaration represents a step in the right direction toward SDG 4 (quality education for all) and the wider aim of poverty alleviation and global equality. 

– Alice Weatherley
Photo: Unsplash

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Policy Reform Needed for Bidoon Children in Kuwait

Bidoon ChildrenKuwait is known for its wealth, hovering around the top five wealthiest countries. Kuwait’s geographic location and access to oil reserves have boasted Kuwait to be one of the highest per capita GDPs globally, at roughly $43,000. However, not all residents within Kuwait enjoy the same privileges as its citizens. As a developing country with a fast-paced, growing market, many people residing in Kuwait have been less fortunate.

Citizens in Kuwait are allowed many freedoms, but not all those who live in Kuwait are citizens. A group of people known as “Bidoon,” short for Bidoon Jinsiya, meaning in Arabic “without nationality.” In Kuwait, this means those of Bidoon descent are stateless and illegal residents of the government. About 110,000 stateless people are living in Kuwait. Many of those who are Bidoon come from generations of Nomad families who were there before Kuwait declared independence in 1961. Some Bidoon didn’t understand the concept of registering for citizenship in 1961.

In the 1980s, a change happened in legislative terms where Bidoon were considered ‘illegal residents’ and lost further rights such as free public health care, education and housing. Others labeled Bidoon are those of families who served in the Gulf War and are from neighboring countries such as Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Syria. The government rejects Bidoon who have tried to gain citizenship.

The Hardship of Being Bidoon

Bidoon individuals face significant hardships due to their stateless status. They lack political rights, access to land, business registration, employment, public health care and public education. Bidoon people experience many hardships as they are technically illegal and have temporary identification cards. These cards are vital as they are necessary for employment. Many Bidoon face the challenge of acquiring a job, resulting in many Bidoon individuals living in poverty compared to Kuwait citizens. From being illegal persons in Kuwait, they have been discriminated against, harassed and exploited. Bidoon people face job discrimination because they are not deemed legal residents; job security and salary are significantly lower.

Education Policy Currently in Kuwait for Bidoons

Those of Bidoon descent face many obstacles, such as access to education being a significant prevailing problem. Education is a pillar of Kuwait and its citizens, but in the 1980s, Bidoon children could not attend public schools. Now, Bidoon children struggle to find a private school that most families cannot afford, and these private schools provide a lower quality of education.

Parents must pay up to 30% of the Private school tuition; the state financial assistance covers the rest for Bidoons. Those privileged Bidoons can afford this, but many children end up not going to school and skipping years to save money. Boy children will go more to school than girls as boys’ education is a higher priority and because Bidoon families cannot afford to send all of their children to school.

Journey of Policy Reform

The lack of education is enormous as it impacts their lives daily. Access to quality education would uplift many Bidoon and their children from impoverished lifestyles. The private schools are known to be inferior places of learning — much of the policy reform movement is from the human rights efforts. Having the denial of citizenship creates a loop where they cannot gain proper education because of no citizenship, which inhibits their life further. Policy reform for the Bidoon people would include desegregation of education and allowing Bidoon children to gain an equal public education.

In 2019, the speaker of the Kuwait National Assembly announced a proposed law amendment for Bidoons to gain proper education, medical care and ID papers. Yet, three months after the proposal, the jurisdiction committee denied the new amendment, which would have made non-Kuwaiti citizens eligible for more rights.

Advocating for a new amendment is to help the people and Bidoon children gain a quality education and better their lives from the risk of impoverishment. Prosecution is a reality for protesters who advocate for Bidoon’s rights, as many have been fined or jailed. To end the fight for the Bidoon people, the National Assembly must enforce and uphold the amendment for naturalization rights.

Looking Ahead

Many still need citizenship due to the history of the independence of Kuwait and the movement of other peoples from other countries to Kuwait. Even if generations of these people lived in Kuwait, they must be considered legal citizens with proper documentation. This status of statehood has disproportionately affected their lives and has restricted their access to resources. Bidoon children do not have naturalization rights in practice. The education disparity for Bidoon people is vast as they have no access to public schools, looking towards private schools that require tuition and have worse quality. Advocating will help end this disparity as policy reform for an amendment or the naturalization amendment will help save the Bidoon people from impoverishment.

– Ariana Wauer
Photo: Flickr

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The Fiavota Cash Transfer Program: Alleviating Poverty in Madagascar

Fiavota Cash Transfer ProgramMadagascar’s Grand Sud region, the country’s poorest area, faced severe hardship due to a devastating drought spanning from 2013 to 2015, followed by a 75% drop in rainfall in 2016, leading to a loss of 95% of crops, pushing more than a million people into food insecurity. Rainfall gaps in 2018, 2019 and 2020, compounded by the impact of COVID-19, have exacerbated this crisis.

By March 2023, more than 2 million people in Madagascar will likely face acute food insecurity. The Fiavota cash transfer program, with support from the World Bank and UNICEF, emerged as a lifeline for those affected by the drought by providing cash transfers disbursed by the government in combination with nutrition services and recovery funding.

Aiding Hundreds of Thousands and Alleviating Poverty

The Fiavota cash transfer program has made a monumental impact in Madagascar, benefiting more than 450,000 individuals, a significant portion of whom are women. These women, often the most vulnerable to poverty, have found opportunities to improve their families’ living conditions. The impact on poverty is profound, as families struggling with finances have witnessed a remarkable transformation.

The financial support provided by Fiavota has allowed households to increase their income, leading to beneficiary households now enjoying an average income 40% higher than non-beneficiary households. This substantial boost in income directly contributes to the alleviation of poverty.

Furthermore, Fiavota has played a pivotal role in empowering women and facilitating the establishment of small family enterprises, exemplified by businesses. In 2018, nearly two-thirds of recipient households engaged in a minimum of two small, family-operated income-generating ventures, typically led by women, directly contributing to poverty reduction.

Enhancing Food Security and Nutrition To Tackle Poverty

Amid the drought aftermath, one of the most pressing concerns was food security, a direct link to poverty alleviation. Fiavota swiftly addressed this issue by providing food and nutrition workshops and introducing households to a more diversified diet. This initiative has played a pivotal role in reducing cases of acute childhood malnutrition, ultimately enhancing overall food security in the region.

There have been significant improvements in food insecurity among beneficiaries. These improvements include a reduction in households skipping meals due to lack of money (3% reduction), having no food in the household due to a lack of money (9% reduction) and going to bed hungry (11% reduction). By mitigating food insecurity, Fiavota takes substantial strides in the battle against poverty.

Investing in Education

In Madagascar, 40% of children have no access to education, and 70% of students drop out before the final grade of primary school. Education is a powerful means to break the cycle of poverty, and the program’s positive effects on educational outcomes are well-documented, with evidence suggesting substantial improvements in school enrollment and attendance.

Beneficiary children have experienced a remarkable 29% increase in school enrollment, reaching an impressive 72% enrollment rate. Additionally, these children attend school more regularly, with an average increase of 0.34 days per week compared to their peers. The program has had massive success in increasing access to education and helping break the cycles of poverty.

Improving Child Health

Children in Madagascar often suffer from serious malnourishment, with more than one-fourth of children being severely malnourished. Fiavota has demonstrated its effectiveness in improving child health, a critical factor in the fight against poverty, as spending levels, particularly basic spending needs for food and necessities, influence health, nutrition and well-being. Children’s health improved significantly, with almost a 10% difference compared to non-recipients.

Furthermore, beneficiary households were 26% more likely to visit health centers, representing a nearly 100% increase over non-beneficiary households, further underscoring the program’s contribution to poverty alleviation by enhancing the health and well-being of children.

Continued Impact on Poverty Reduction

The impact of the Fiavota cash transfer program extends far beyond immediate relief. By addressing multiple dimensions of poverty, including food security, economic empowerment, education and child health, Fiavota improves the lives of individuals and families and contributes to the broader development of the Grand Sud region in Madagascar. This holistic approach offers a promising path toward sustainable poverty reduction.

Conclusion

The Fiavota cash transfer program in Madagascar is a powerful tool for alleviating poverty. Through its multifaceted interventions, Fiavota directly addresses the root causes of poverty, providing essential support to the most vulnerable populations in the Grand Sud region. As Madagascar continues to grapple with its unique challenges, programs like Fiavota exemplify the transformative impact that targeted interventions can have on those living in poverty.

 – Marnie Woodford-Venables 
Photo: Flickr

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Urgent Need: Access to Education for Refugee Children

Education for Refugee ChildrenAs conflicts continue to run rampant, people are forced to flee and abandon their homes. In a new world of uncertainty, children’s fundamental right to education is being denied. Seven million refugee children are currently out of school, about half of all refugee children. Without sufficient learning, many of these children will face further difficulties and challenges.

The Growing Issue of Refugee Children

According to UNICEF estimates, by the end of 2022, an unprecedented 43.3 million children were residing in forced displacement, with a significant portion enduring this difficulty throughout their entire childhood. This is double what was recorded in the last decade. Some of these children may never have the opportunity to receive an education throughout their lives.

Nearly 2 million children were born into refugee status. This indicates a generational poverty cycle, where generations struggle with basic access to education, health care and financial support. This puts millions of refugee children at an even greater disadvantage. Some children have even been separated from their families and are now alone. 

The Importance of Education

Education is a fundamental right for children across the world, no matter the circumstance. It equips every child with the tools to enhance their future, and it provides them with the knowledge and skills to empower themselves to take control over their life/future. 

The enrollment rates for refugees, on average, are 38% for pre-primary education, 65% for primary education, 41% for secondary education and merely 6% for tertiary education.

Education protects these vulnerable children from recruitment and exploitation, while also improving community strength. Refugee children are often targeted for unlawful and immoral purposes, especially those who have become separated and are alone. Education and knowledge are key to preventing these occurrences via an understanding of their rights and well-being.

UNESCO research finds that limited access to education for refugee children and significant educational disparities contribute to an increased likelihood of violence and conflict, which leads to a destructive cycle of missed educational opportunities, conflict and displacement. Over 21 years, areas with exceptionally low average education had a 50% probability of conflict. Education is an investment in long-term stability, where educated individuals can build better lives and contribute to their communities. 

Finally, amid the chaos of losing your home, education brings a sense of routine and structure to young children’s lives. It provides comfort, safety and a caring environment for these children to thrive in. This also contributes to the overall mental health of these children, as stress and anxiety can become prevalent through their tough experiences. 

Challenges and Solutions

The biggest challenge in education for refugee children is access. Many of these children do not have adequate access to education due to financial barriers, displacement and sometimes due to lack of infrastructure. A majority of these camps lack educational facilities, materials and qualified teachers. 

To enhance access, coordinated efforts are required. Through governmental agencies and NGOs, access can be brought to every refugee child. Financial support is key, as many kids cannot afford education. Governments should also ensure the enforcement of education for every child under the 1951 Refugee Convention. Investments are also needed to improve infrastructure, improve the quality of teaching and provide school equipment.

Trauma and psychological distress are also issues that stop refugee children from attending school. Many refugee children experience trauma, loss, violence and sudden change. All of these negatively affect a child’s ability to learn and concentrate and camps don’t tend to have access to mental health help or counseling. 

To help children who are suffering mentally, counseling and more awareness surrounding mental health are required. Counseling will provide a safe space and environment where issues can be identified and thus be resolved. Mental health awareness will also teach kids emotional intelligence and how to deal with problems that may arise. 

Financial power is a prominent issue for refugee families. Because of economic pressure, children become victims of child labor. Where financial earnings are considered more important than education and school.

Scholarships and financial support are pivotal in boosting school enrollment among refugee children. By alleviating financial burdens, families can prioritize their children’s education and break the cycle of poverty.

Remarkably, the U.N. Foundation reports that “less than 2% of humanitarian aid goes towards education.” Education for displaced children is severely underfunded. Initiatives like Education Cannot Wait, a new fund that supports education for children during situations of crises and prolonged emergencies, are working to rectify this situation. The urgent need for access to education for refugee children demands immediate attention, collaboration and resource allocation to secure a brighter future for these vulnerable young lives.

– Lewis Butcher
Photo: Pexels

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How the Philippines is Prioritizing Education

The Philippines is Prioritizing Education
In the dynamic landscape of the Philippines, a technological revolution in the form of e-learning has been reshaping the educational landscape and subsequent economic opportunities. 

With around 20 million Filipinos living in poverty as of 2021, the country is struggling with high poverty rates. Perpetuated by ongoing conflicts, poor educational infrastructure and COVID-19, the poverty crisis in the Philippines has been negatively affecting the education system for decades. However, various solutions to counteract this high rate, including overseas aid, infrastructure improvement and health care system improvements, are yielding positive results. Here is information about how the Philippines is prioritizing education in an effort to combat poverty.

The Ways the Philippines is Prioritizing Education

This article covers the role of education in poverty eradication. Low investments in traditional education over the past decades and outdated teaching methods have led to a high number of children struggling to receive a formal education. As of 2016, the number of children outside of education stands at 2.8 million. When poverty is higher, families often choose work for children over education, perpetuating a cycle of poverty that can continue for generations. 

Starting from the beginning, education can act as a springboard for children to increase their opportunities and advance themselves beyond poverty. Without good educational systems, a cycle of poverty can begin before the child reaches adulthood, which is why addressing educational issues is key to breaking through this cycle and fostering an environment where a child can choose their own future. 

The Alternate Learning System (ALS)

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) is a parallel learning system to the formal education system in the Philippines. Established by the Department for Education, the ALS aims to provide education to Filipinos who have not had the chance to finish their formal education. The ALS is more flexible, meaning that barriers to education can often be overcome through it. 

While many communities in the Philippines find themselves cut off from formal education establishments, ALS can operate within communities in libraries and community spaces. Participants can access materials online, meaning access to the internet, something which is becoming far more common, is the only barrier. ALS is empowering individuals to acquire fundamental skills in literacy, numeracy and essential life competencies, enhancing economic prospects for them and their families.

The Open University

Higher education has often been difficult to access due to financial constraints and geographical boundaries. The University of the Philippines’ Open University originated in 1995, aiming to pioneer online degree programs. This opens up options for people living in rural and underserved regions, as well as working people and single parents, to pursue higher-paying prospects and enhance social mobility. 

The Open University offers free courses, and one can take them online. In the Philippines, higher education comprises colleges, which primarily offer vocational courses, and universities, which focus on classical academic courses. The improvements in higher education have seen a marked increase in students in recent years. In the 2006–17 period, there was a 40% growth in enrollment in higher education, with 3,590,000 students enrolled in some measure of higher education. 

The Good News

With a renewed government emphasis on the importance of education, reforms have started to take shape. One such initiative is the 2015 Education for All program, which aims to equip all Filipinos with ‘functional literacy’ — the capability to read, write and perform basic mathematical calculations. The World Bank also estimates that the Government has increased public spending by 60% between 2010–2015, providing the means to hire more teachers and the provision of more resources to students. The 2016 K–12 reforms make it mandatory for children to attend education up to the age of 13, and build on plans to build more schools and expand the curriculum to science and vocational-based subjects. 

As internet access becomes more widespread, the rolling out of e-learning becomes an increasingly potent driver of societal transformation. The achievements of the ALS, Open University and various government reforms operate beside a variety of other complementary programs all targeting increased access to education. The Philippines is prioritizing education and embracing the power of educational inclusivity, and as a result, creating a reality that empowers its citizens to choose their own future. 

– Myron Westgarth
Photo: Unsplash

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Combating Child Illiteracy in Indonesia

Child Illiteracy in Indonesia
With 42% of Indonesia’s population dwelling in rural areas, the lack of access to education and literacy programs for children is a pressing issue. According to UNICEF, in the remote Papua province, more than 50% of 5-year-old children have never attended school, and of those who are enrolled in education, only 6% of them can read. Another study that the Innovation for Indonesia’s School Children program (INOVASI) conducted revealed that 43% of Grade 2 students failed a basic literacy test. 

The Situation

There are numerous contributing factors to the high levels of child illiteracy in Indonesia. Teacher training is poor quality, with repeated absences of teachers and principals. The value of education and literacy is often overlooked, especially in rural areas where skilled jobs and higher levels of education are largely absent. This leads to a community culture that does not value reading which is compounded by the fact that children’s books are often expensive and inaccessible, with public library services only operating in urban areas. 

The effects of child illiteracy can reverberate long into adulthood, with fewer employment prospects available for those unable to read or write, as well as struggling to be independent due to the inability to make informed decisions based on reading material. Child illiteracy can also create generational patterns, as parents who grew up placing less emphasis on education and reading are more likely to prioritize education less for their own children. However, child illiteracy in Indonesia is now a well-recognized issue, with multiple initiatives in place working to improve literacy levels and the quality of education offered to children. 

Early Grade Literacy

UNICEF initiated the ‘Early Grade Literacy’ program in 2015. The objective of the EGL project is to enhance students’ reading and writing skills by educating teachers on how to provide an efficient, effective and creative educational environment. 

The teachers are trained in classroom admin, methods to develop literacy, positive discipline methods and how to manage libraries. Ibu Wanggai, a primary school teacher in Jayapura has seen a “remarkable” improvement in her students since working alongside the EGL program. After learning more creative methods to engage her students in learning, and creating a colorful “reading corner” in her classroom, her students are now much more able to make literacy advancements and spend more time reading. 

Since the project’s inception, more than 40 primary schools in the Supiori District have received a total of 18,000 books and learning modules, reaching more than 2,500 children across the province. 

Innovation for Indonesia’s School Children (INOVASI) Program

In collaboration with the Indonesian and Australian governments, INOVASI has been working to ameliorate child illiteracy in Indonesia since 2016. Following numerous surveys and analyses of the roots of the issue, the Indonesian Ministry of Education administered a list of books approved for early grades education, as well as new legislation that now makes it easier for authors to submit books for approval for early education. 

INOVASI is also working alongside the government to update textbooks used in schools, with a special focus on gender and inclusivity. It has also connected Australian authors and illustrators with the Indonesian industry to boost the diversity of literature available to children. In 2022 alone, the government was able to grant more than 12 million books to 7,609 remote primary schools across the country. 

Conclusion

The remoteness of many communities in Indonesia combined with the lower prioritization of reading and writing skills has meant that children in Indonesia are struggling in the classroom. Thanks to inspirational and effective initiatives such as the Early Grade Literacy program and INOVASI, efforts to combat child illiteracy are proving effective and bode well for the youth of the country. 

– Eleanor Moseley
Photo: Flickr

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The Top 3 Facts About Child Poverty in Tajikistan

Child Poverty in Tajikistan Tajikistan is the most impoverished country in Central Asia. Due to inadequate educational resources, lack of job opportunities and expanding families, 66% of Tajikistan’s children suffer from poverty. With almost 50% of the population under 25, that makes child poverty in Tajikistan a great disparity within the country’s overall 12.6% poverty rate.

3 Facts About Child Poverty in Tajikistan

  1. Lack of Infrastructure for Education. On average, a student in Tajikistan only spends 6.8 years in school. Though the country has an adult literacy rate over 99%, 11% of Tajik children cannot read simple sentences before the end of their primary education. By the time they are 18, 11% of school-age children drop out to work and support their families.
  2. Child Labor and Seasonal Markets. Though it is illegal for children under 15 to work, 15–20% of the labor force comes from child labor. Around 200,000 children aged 5–14 are working to support their families in making ends meet, while 64,000 are working unpaid. The economy in Tajikistan is primarily agriculture-based, making their markets seasonal, so when the winter comes, many families lose their primary sources of income and feel the impacts of poverty even more. Disproportionately, this struggle impacts families with numerous children, because of how expensive and hard it is to obtain food.
  3. Prominent Malnutrition. Without access to clean water, nutritious varieties of food, and with subpar sanitary practices, many children in Tajikistan lack the vital nutrients and minerals necessary for them to live healthy lives, and only 40% get the necessary nutrients they need. Mostly, malnutrition harms those in rural areas due to poor food accessibility and monetary restrictions, affecting 20% or more of Tajik children. Due to significant deficiencies, Tajik children feel the results of undernutrition through anemia as well as low vitamin A and iodine levels. Four in 10 children are anemic, and 41% of women 11–55 are anemic.

How USAID’s Feed the Future Program Is Working to End Child Poverty

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hunger reached half a million Tajik people. To support people’s health and wellness during this time, USAID provided necessary resources and aid. This included nutrition and health clinics for 178,748 children, as well as assistance for 2,782 children showing signs of malnutrition to overcome low weight and growth stunting. By making nutritious goods such as dense vegetables available to communities, the Feed the Future Program was able to increase proper nutrient intake from 18% to 53% in children 6 to 23 months old, and from 18% to 23% for those being breastfed.

They furthermore helped to amend local laws on access to clean drinking water, helping the Tajik government deliver safe water to its citizens. By providing $10.2 million in relief efforts, USAID was able to provide Tajik children with proper nutrition and sanitation.

– Nadia Soifer
Photo: Flickr

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5 Ways the Global Citizen Festival Is Changing the World

Global Citizen Festival Is Changing the World
Global Citizen is an advocacy organization focused on ending global poverty and addressing critical issues worldwide. Hugh Evans and Simon Moss founded Global Citizen in 2008 to mobilize leaders and engage the public. Since its start, the organization has taken off and been incredibly successful. One way Global Citizen raises awareness is by hosting an annual festival. The festival aims to raise awareness about global issues like inequality, poverty, education and changing weather patterns. The event inspires people to make a difference and advocate for change. The Global Citizen Festival is changing the world in five important ways.

5 Ways the Global Citizen Festival is Changing the World

  1. Takes Action: Potential festival attendees must complete specific tasks to be eligible for ticket selections. Each action taken earns a certain number of points. Activities for this year’s festival include uploading activism videos, sending out tweets, signing petitions, taking quizzes and sending messages. Instead of purchasing tickets, people must earn them. Global citizens completed 2 million actions in 2022 before the festival began. Since the first festival in 2012, around 34 million actions have been taken. These actions create immense change and push leaders and the public to make a difference.
  2. Raises Awareness: One big part of the festival is incorporating celebrities and musicians to bring awareness to global issues. Global Citizen creates lineups to bring in fans from all over the world. The understanding of current issues is raised by bringing in fans and completing action tasks. This year’s lineup features Megan Thee Stallion, Lauryn Hill, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Conan Gray and Stray Kids. By utilizing celebrities and music, the festival can bring in 60,000 people. That is 60,000 more people making a difference. The festival is also live-streamed and broadcast so people all over the world can watch it, which allows more people to engage with the festival and support the message. The influence of celebrities is enormous, too. Promoting and engaging with the celebration on social media helps raise awareness and promote the event.
  3. Education: The global citizen festival is only possible with education first. Global Citizen is constantly working towards educating people about current issues and what they can do to help. The festival provides engaging opportunities to learn and collect information about global problems. The festival has panels, workshops, personal stories and exhibits to educate and reach people deeper. Before, during and after the event, education is possible. Education is vital in a world where poverty has shown no sign of stopping. The festival is changing the world through this education and engagement.
  4. Mobilizes Leaders: Global Citizen targets the public to make a change and encourages leaders, too — the festival pressures leaders to support initiatives and legislation that empower our world and alleviate global poverty. Last year, many leaders made pledges on stage and through video calls to make a difference. Places like Ghana, Canada, Norway, Germany and many more made these promises. The festival also mobilized partners to agree to new financial and policy agreements to evoke a more significant change. The Global Citizen Festival prides itself on mobilizing leaders and creating a safer space for everyone. Leaders continue to join the cause and address the world’s most pressing issues.
  5. Fundraising: Although citizens must earn general admission tickets, the festival still raises money through donations. Partners, sponsorships, the world’s wealthy and the general public are all contributors. In 2022, the festival raised $2.4 billion to fight global poverty. The festival looks to match or beat that number this year. Now more than ever, money is needed to make a difference in alleviating poverty. Although the festival primarily focuses on mobilization and advocacy, the funds help end poverty and other global challenges.

Looking Ahead

The Global Citizen Festival is changing the world. The event shows how decisive collective action can be and how advocacy can come from anyone. Since its start, the festival has inspired millions of people to make a change and fight extreme poverty. Through the use of celebrities and musicians, the festival can educate and empower individuals. It inspires leaders and organizations to commit to preserving the world’s future. 

– Madison Rogers
Photo: Flickr