Why it Matters
Education is the main contributor to a safe, fair, prosperous and sustainable world for all human beings.
Education is a Human Right
Education is a fundamental human right and plays a vital role in human, social, and economic development. It is manifested in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Although major progress in the last few years, an estimated of 59 million children are still denied their right to education.
Every child ought to have the opportunity of quality education to have better chances in life, including employment opportunities, increased health, and to participate and contribute to changing society.
Education Generates Significant Development Benefits
On the macro level, education reduces poverty, boosts economic growth and increases income.
On the micro level, it improves health, promotes gender equality, reduces child marriage, reduces maternal deaths, combats diseases and promotes peace.
There is no doubt that education yields one of the highest returns of any investment!
Education is essential to the success of all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set out the global development agenda for 2016-2030. Goal 4 on education aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” In order to accomplish every of the other SDGs, from protecting the environment to empowering women, education is vital.
Education is essential in times of conflict.
During periods of conflict and crisis, children are forced out of school, increasing their suffering and trauma and sometimes even leaving entire generations without education. In war-affected areas, it is critical to keep the focus on education since it is vital in promoting stability, good governance, peace and understanding.
Educating girls has a multiplying effect.
Educated girls and women tend to be healthier, have fewer children, earn more income and provide better health care for themselves and their future. These benefits are transmitted across generations and have a ripple effect on entire communities.
Girls’ education is the most effective means to combat many of the challenges to human development. By granting girls the opportunity to receive an education, we unlock benefits that extend to all members of society.