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Strengthening Education in Brazil

Strengthening the Education System in BrazilBrazil, South America’s largest country with a population of 216.4 million, shows mixed results in education. Student performance declined in the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Despite this, illiteracy rates dropped from 6.1% in 2019 to 5.6% in 2022, indicating some improvement in basic education. The country is experiencing increased outbound student mobility, driven by rising tertiary enrollments. Projections suggest Brazil will rank among the top five nations globally for total tertiary enrollments by 2035 despite an aging population. To address these ongoing challenges, the OECD and other organizations are collaborating to enhance Brazil’s education system.

Brazil’s Education System and Socioeconomic Progress

Education in Brazil is a guaranteed social right under the Federal Constitution, providing free public access at all levels. The education system is divided into basic and higher education. Basic education encompasses early childhood, primary and lower secondary and upper secondary education. Compulsory education begins at age 4 with pre-school and continues for 14 years through the end of upper secondary education. Historically, Brazil’s economic growth has benefited from favorable demographics and robust commodity prices. This growth, coupled with specific policies, has significantly improved living standards. Between 2003 and 2014, these efforts lifted more than 29 million people out of poverty, reduced child mortality by 73% from 1990 to 2011 and broadened access to basic education.

OECD’s 5 Steps to Strengthen Brazil’s Education System

  1. Impact of COVID-19 on Brazil’s Educational Funding. COVID-19 significantly affected Brazil’s economy, resulting in reduced education spending. The OECD criticizes the rigidity of this funding, which merely satisfies spending requirements without addressing effectiveness. The organization recommends a more flexible, outcome-focused approach to funding. According to the OECD, increased investment in education would substantially improve the quality of education that students receive.
  2. Enhancing the Teaching Profession in Brazil. To enhance Brazil’s education system, the OECD recommends upgrading the teaching profession. This upgrade should include better salaries, career progression and working conditions for teachers. The organization also suggests that new teachers pass a licensing test and receive induction support during their early years to ensure they have adequate training.
  3. Improving Teacher Effectiveness and Student Outcomes. Boosting student outcomes involves enhancing teachers’ effectiveness in the classroom. This could include proper teacher training and skill improvements in areas such as classroom management. Providing incentives, such as promotions and performance-based payments, can also motivate teachers.
  4. Creating a Positive School Environment. There is a need for improvement in handling bullying and harassment on school grounds, with appropriate punishments for offenders. Schools should strive to create a positive environment for both students and teachers to improve well-being and learning outcomes, reducing the risk of dropouts.
  5. Supporting Disadvantaged Students and Preventing Dropouts. Disadvantaged students should receive continuous support from early childhood education until they complete their education. To address dropouts, teachers should focus on supporting the weakest and least motivated students, possibly through individual teaching and tutoring. Students at risk should also receive additional funding and support to remain in education.

Looking Ahead

Brazil’s commitment to advancing its education system reflects the country’s efforts to prepare for future socioeconomic challenges. Prioritizing innovation, equity and effective resource allocation can potentially address long-standing disparities in education. By fostering collaborative partnerships and emphasizing strategic improvements in education, Brazil aims to create opportunities for all students, supporting both national development and individual growth.

– Indira Smith

Indira is based in Manchester and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Ways the IOM is Addressing Somalia’s Humanitarian Crisis

3 Ways the IOM is Addressing Humanitarian Crisis in SomaliaSomalia is a low-income country in the Horn of Africa. The country has suffered through four consecutive years of drought. This has caused the death of almost 4 million livestock between July 2021 and April 2022. A once-in-a-century flooding event during the latest rainy season worsened this grim situation. The paradoxical combination of drought and floods has resulted in failed harvests, decreased food security and displaced more than a million Somalians. Here are three ways the International Organization for Migration (IOM)—one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the country—is addressing Somalia’s humanitarian crisis.

3 Ways IOM Addresses Somalia’s Humanitarian Crisis

  1. New Mobile Clinics. In August 2023, IOM announced the opening of seven new mobile clinics in the city of Garowe, Somalia. The purpose of the clinics is to provide health and nutrition services to individuals affected by the drought. The clinics offer free malnutrition screenings, nutrition assistance, child immunizations and medical consultations to those in need, among other services. Despite receiving just 34% of the requested funding, IOM has impressively managed to reach 73% of Somalians targeted for health and nutrition assistance by the organization.
  2. Emergency Shelter. While plastic sheets may not seem like much in the way of shelter, they can be effective for temporarily patching roof holes in times of heavy rainfall and are a far cry better than no shelter at all. Recognizing this, IOM supplied 100,000 plastic sheets to flood-impacted regions of the country in Aug. 2023. Additionally, IOM provided more than 5,000 Somalian households with crucial emergency shelter materials in the same month. This program was subsequently scaled up to cover more than 7,000 households in the following month.
  3. Solar-Powered Wells. The prolonged drought in Somalia has resulted in many shallow wells and small reservoirs drying up, forcing thousands of rural Somalians to flee to urban areas or refugee camps. To combat this trend and improve access to clean water and sanitation, IOM is working on rehabilitating seven wells in the city of Baidoa, Somalia. While still in progress, the last two boreholes for the wells were completed in Aug. 2023. IOM is outfitting the wells with solar generators to guarantee their sustainability. In addition, the organization has cumulatively provided more than two million Somalians with water, sanitation and hygiene assistance as of Aug. 2023.

Looking Ahead

The IOM continues to play a critical role in addressing Somalia’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. Through the establishment of mobile clinics, the provision of emergency shelter materials and the rehabilitation of solar-powered wells, IOM has provided essential aid to millions of Somalians affected by drought and flooding. These ongoing efforts aim to improve health services, enhance living conditions and secure access to clean water, all of which are crucial in mitigating the severe impacts of the country’s climate challenges.

– Kipling Newman

Kipling is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Yemen’s Water Crisis

Yemen's Water CrisisYemen, strategically located on the Southern Arab peninsula, has a rich history shaped by thousands of years of societal and dynastic changes, resulting in a diverse society. However, modern warfare and harsh weather conditions have contributed to significant water insecurity. In 2023, Human Rights Watch reported that 15.3 million Yemenis face water crisis, while other estimates suggest the number could be as high as 20 million. This makes Yemen one of the most water-scarce countries in the world.

Causes of the Water Crisis

The American Education Global Majority Journal identifies five primary causes for Yemen’s water crisis: high population growth, misguided agricultural policies, water consumption for qat cultivation, lack of law enforcement in water regulation and high vulnerability to climate change. Additionally, the ongoing conflict since 2014 has severely disrupted water and agricultural systems, particularly in peri-urban and internally displaced persons (IDP) areas. It impedes the construction of responsive infrastructure and diverts internal funding away from water projects. Understanding these dynamics is essential for addressing Yemeni security challenges.

Impact of the Water Crisis

The destruction of water and sanitation systems during wartime in Yemen has facilitated the spread of water-borne diseases. For instance, a cholera outbreak in 2016 spread across 19 governorates, affecting 53,000 people and it is estimated that half a million children suffer from diarrhea at any given time. Additionally, UNICEF predicts that 2 million boys and girls in Yemen are denied an education due to the scarcity of wells and flowing water networks. The need to travel miles for water often falls on children, pulling them away from their education. In the Dhamar governorate, for example, the water network has suffered significantly due to limited financial resources and the ongoing crisis, forcing many students to leave school to help fetch water from remote areas to support their families.

Currently, 257,000 hectares of Yemen’s agricultural land reveal signs of distress. Water scarcity not only reduces agricultural production but also exacerbates food and nutrition security issues, leading to widespread health problems. This is compounded by ongoing conflict that has disrupted agrifood systems throughout the country.

Local Efforts to Alleviate Yemen’s Water Crisis

Saba Relief, one of many local charity organizations in Yemen, provides water wells, family water tanks and public water tanks funded by public donations. This support enables families to access water without traveling long distances, freeing up time for other opportunities, such as schooling for children.

International Aid and Technological Innovations

International charities like Muslim Aid USA are leveraging scientific advancements such as solar water disinfection. Unlike conventional well pumps that use grid electricity, a solar-powered pump operates on free energy from the sun. Solar water wells use this solar energy to purify biologically contaminated water, significantly reducing disease risk and bringing stability to communities in drought-prone areas affected by wartime migration.

Another benefit of international involvement is the sharing of techniques and methods to tackle the water crisis in Yemen. For example, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands has successfully implemented water-saving measures in agricultural practices, reducing usage by 19% from 72.6 cubic meters per hectare a year (approximately the volume of a one-car garage) to 58.56 cubic meters (about twice the volume of a large U-Haul truck) per hectare per year. The project began by importing modern irrigation equipment into the Sana basin. A second ongoing project builds on this success and aims to enhance water use efficiency further.

Strengthening Local Governance and Infrastructure

In 2023, the United Nations (U.N.) initiated the ‘Strengthening Inclusive Local Governance and Peacebuilding in Yemen’ project, which successfully rehabilitated the main water networks in Maghrib Ans and Al-Jadad. Samira Al-Qanoun, member of the Consultation Committee in Dhamar Governorate, praised the project, noting, “The rehabilitation of the network allows us access to clean and safe water, enhances our community safety and improves the overall living conditions of families.” Currently serving 420 households, the newly rehabilitated water network is set to expand service to more than 800 households, setting the stage for future community projects supported by international aid.

Toward a Sustainable Solution

As stated by Ahmed Ali Al-Dourani “We cannot achieve peace without providing access to clean and safe water to every community member.” Efforts to combat Yemen’s water crisis reveal promise through local initiatives and crucial international support. By continuing to embrace technological innovations and strengthening governance, Yemen could further enhance water access for its citizens.

– Kathryn Dodd

Kathryn is based in the UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Facts About Poverty in Indonesia Papua

5 Facts About Poverty in Indonesia PapuaIndonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country and boasts the 10th largest economy.  Over the past few years, Indonesia has made great strides in economic growth. Nationwide poverty level has decreased steadily. In fact, between 1999 and 2019, the poverty rate was reduced by more than half and now only 9.5% of the country lives under the poverty line. Despite overall positive trends in poverty alleviation across Indonesia, province-based inequalities are still rampant.

Poverty Disparities in Indonesia

Papua and West Papua, which make up Indonesian New Guinea, have the highest poverty rates in Indonesia. More than 28% of residents in these provinces live below the poverty line, significantly higher than the national average. Moreover, factors contributing to this disparity include educational gaps, limited food resources, natural disasters and conflicts. Here are five key facts about poverty in Indonesian New Guinea.

Facts About Poverty in Indonesia

  1. Papuans are a minority ethnic group. Indonesia is home to a diverse array of ethnic groups. Nearly 2 million Papuans, who are distinct in ethnicity, language and religion from the majority of Indonesians, live in Indonesian Papua and West Papua. Migration from other parts of Indonesia is increasing the ethnic diversity in these regions, with other indigenous groups becoming a significant part of the population. This diversity often subjects Papuans to discrimination and marginalization.
  2. Current conflict. Political tensions between Papuans and the Indonesian government are currently high. Some Papuans are pushing for independence, prompting retaliation from the government. This conflict is the primary source of tension between Indonesia and pro-Papuan independence forces. Civilians often find themselves caught in the crossfire, leading to internal displacement and targeting by combatants, which exacerbates the hardship faced by many in Indonesian Papua.
  3. Food insecurity in West Papua. West Papua has one of the highest rates of food insecurity in Indonesia. To improve this, authorities are encouraging West Papuans to revert to their traditional diets, which rely heavily on food harvested from native forest systems. By promoting traditional dietary habits and the use of local resources, the government aims to reduce food insecurity throughout the province.
  4. Rural and remote education initiatives. The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has launched initiatives in Indonesia’s Papua region to address educational equity gaps among indigenous populations. In collaboration with the governments of Indonesia and Australia, UNICEF targets children in remote areas of the Papuan provinces, focusing on 120 schools. This effort aims to reach more underprivileged students and boost literacy and education rates in these areas.
  5. Multiple natural disasters. The Papuan region of Indonesia is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and flooding. In 2022, heavy rainfall triggered floods and landslides across Indonesia, including Papua. That fall, several earthquakes struck parts of Indonesia, causing extensive damage. Additionally, at the end of 2023, another earthquake damaged buildings and houses in Indonesian Papua, resulting in several fatalities. The frequency of these natural disasters complicates efforts to rebuild infrastructure, as the challenges persist.

Looking Forward

Indonesia’s targeted initiatives in Papua and West Papua promise to bridge the gap in poverty and inequality. Continued focus on educational enhancements, traditional agricultural practices and resilient infrastructure development could be crucial to sustaining progress and improving lives across all provinces.

– Adrita Quabili

Adrita is based in Atlanta, GA, USA and focuses on Politics and World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Multidimensional Poverty in the Maldives

Multidimensional Poverty in the MaldivesIn Maldives, 0.8% of the population lives in poverty and 4.8% are at risk. These stats might suggest that poverty is not a major issue in the country. However, these percentages translate into thousands or even millions of individuals, significantly altering the perceived scale and impact of poverty. The multidimensional poverty index (MPI) reveals that poverty in the country is more complex and widespread than traditional measures suggest, indicating that monetary sufficiency does not equate to a lack of suffering. A broader understanding underscores that multidimensional poverty in the Maldives remains a significant concern.

Broadening Poverty Measures

A 2020 United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) report revealed that 28% of people in the Maldives are considered multidimensionally poor, meaning three out of 10 people are affected. This indicates significant deprivations beyond mere income. Multidimensional poverty encompasses those who exceed the monetary poverty threshold but lack access to essential services, thereby impacting their overall quality of life. A broader measure of poverty considers various factors, such as health, education and living standards. It offers a more comprehensive understanding of individuals’ challenges in achieving a decent standard of living.

The Invisible Struggles Beyond Income

Studies show that individuals can face significant quality-of-life challenges without being in traditional poverty. Monetary sufficiency does not shield individuals from barriers in areas often overlooked, such as mental and dental health coverage, internet access and more. These factors broaden the understanding of what constitutes deprivation, beyond just financial constraints, impacting a person’s overall well-being.

The lack of public visibility for Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) data may contribute to an inflated perception of living standards, thereby lessening the urgency for policy intervention. Acknowledging a country’s MPI appears to be necessary, particularly in regions like the Maldives where the poverty rate is potentially misleading. Without acknowledging multidimensional poverty, the complexities of deprivation remain unaddressed, fostering an inaccurate perception of well-being. In addition, the oversight could hinder the necessary push for comprehensive policy solutions, essential for addressing the nuances of poverty not captured by traditional metrics.

Advancing Poverty Reduction Strategies in Maldives

Maldives has shown considerable progress in addressing poverty by adopting innovative strategies that other nations could emulate. A pivotal moment came in 2020 when President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih implemented the MPI for policy formulation, marking a departure from traditional resource allocation methods. The government’s commitment, supported by insights from the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and UNICEF, has been key to these advancements.

Enhancing Digital and Mental Health Access

The country’s crucial need for stable internet access, highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic is proof of multidimensional poverty. With its expansive archipelago, maintaining internet connections for basic needs is vital. Efforts to address this aspect of multidimensional poverty have been propelled by nongovernmental initiatives like Ookla for Good, which advocates for reliable global internet access, and underlines the importance of digital connectivity in contemporary society.

Furthermore, the perception that mental health care is as essential as access to clean water and food is not yet widespread in the Maldives. Multidimensional poverty extends beyond traditional health care needs to include mental health, which often goes unaddressed. To recognize the additional stress poverty places on individuals who need extra care, the Maldives Health Ministry and the World Health Organization (WHO) implement initiatives to advocate for mental health rights. Its ongoing initiative, Central and Regional Mental Health Services and Development Plan aims for completion by 2025 and seeks to meet the crucial needs of mental health patients.

Looking Ahead

As efforts to tackle multidimensional poverty in the Maldives continue to evolve, the nation stands at a pivotal juncture, embracing a holistic approach to eradicating deprivations that extend far beyond mere financial constraints. By addressing the nuanced challenges of multidimensional poverty, from access to health care and education to digital connectivity, the Maldives sets a promising precedent for integrated poverty alleviation strategies. In addition, with sustained commitment from both governmental and nongovernmental sectors, the Maldives is poised to make significant strides in enhancing the well-being of its residents, ensuring that progress encompasses all dimensions of poverty.

– Antonio Muhs

Antonio is located in Springfield, OR, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project

Photo: Flickr