Feature Image Credit: Kureng Workx
Every November, Global Education Week emphasises the significance of equitable and quality education worldwide. This year’s observance will take place from November 18th to November 24th, focusing on raising awareness about global education challenges, promoting a sense of interconnectedness, and showcasing the actions we can all take to foster a more inclusive world. This year the theme is “Connected People for an Inclusive Planet”.
In this article, I will delve into the origins of this essential initiative, discuss the importance of celebrating Global Education Week, and provide an overview of the educational inequalities that continue to impact millions today, especially girls. Additionally, I will share a few ways for us individuals to engage in this year’s celebration.
WHY GLOBAL EDUCATION WEEK?
Global Education Week (GEW) was initiated by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe back in 1999. Originally intended as a platform to advocate for global citizenship, GEW today aims to highlight international issues such as social justice, sustainable development, peace, and equality. Through a diverse array of educational programmes, events, and activities, GEW encourages schools, non-profits, and communities to seek ways to make education accessible and inclusive for everyone, while also fostering reflection on global interconnections and cultural awareness.
Over time, Global Education Week has evolved into a real movement that underscores the importance of education in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which focuses on inclusive and quality education for all. Consequently, GEW has become a significant occasion for educators, students, and activists to unite to promote education’s transformative power in society. And to be honest, I’m all here for it.
the main objectives
Needless to say, it’s another movement we should all take time to celebrate and add to our calendars. We don’t need to be teachers, students or activists to care. It’s our moral duty to do our best to make sure everyone is getting the best education they possibly can… Recognising Global Education Week fulfils several significant objectives:
Raising Awareness of Inequality
By bringing attention to the barriers faced by many, GEW inspires action towards creating equitable learning environments. It serves as a reminder that education should not be a privilege reserved for a few, but a universal opportunity that empowers individuals and communities alike. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, participants in GEW work to dismantle obstacles that hinder access to education, striving to build a future where every person has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.
Promoting Global Citizenship
By engaging with different perspectives and learning about the challenges faced by communities worldwide, participants develop a deeper understanding of their role in the global community. This awareness encourages them to take meaningful action towards creating a more equitable and harmonious world. GEW provides the tools and resources necessary for young people to become informed, compassionate leaders who are equipped to address complex global issues with creativity and sensitivity. Through workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects, GEW empowers students to envision and contribute to a future where diversity is celebrated, and mutual respect is the norm.
Advancing Sustainable Development
Through workshops and community-based projects, GEW participants collaborate to share innovative strategies and best practices that strengthen educational frameworks worldwide. This collaborative spirit is instrumental in building networks of educators, policymakers, and activists dedicated to reforming educational systems to be more inclusive and effective.
Furthermore, GEW serves as a platform to showcase successful case studies and pioneering educational models that have made significant impacts in various regions. These examples inspire others to adapt and implement similar approaches tailored to their unique contexts. By fostering an environment of shared learning and continuous improvement, Global Education Week helps propel the conversation on education forward, ensuring that it remains a dynamic and evolving field.
Ultimately, the celebration of GEW is a testament to the power of education as a tool for transformation. It underscores the belief that education is not merely an academic pursuit but a fundamental right and a key driver for building a more equitable, sustainable, and peaceful world. As participants engage with the myriad opportunities GEW presents, they are reminded of their collective responsibility to champion education in all its forms, ensuring that its benefits are accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Empowering Youth
By participating in interactive sessions, debates, and collaborative projects, youth are empowered to voice their ideas and concerns, gaining confidence in their ability to effect positive change. This empowerment extends beyond the classroom, as students take these lessons into their communities, advocating for sustainable practices and social justice initiatives.
Moreover, GEW nurtures leadership skills, encouraging young participants to spearhead projects and initiatives that align with their passions and values. By connecting with peers and mentors from diverse backgrounds, they develop a global network of support and inspiration, essential for fostering innovative solutions to the pressing issues facing our world today.
Global Education Week not only highlights the critical role of education in personal and societal development but also serves as a beacon of hope and possibility, illustrating how concerted efforts in education can lead to substantial, positive change.
ABOUT EDUCATIONAL INEQUITIES WORLDWIDE
Despite the advancements made, access to education continues to be a pressing issue in numerous regions around the globe. As per UNESCO, around 244 million children and youth aged 6 to 18 are currently not enrolled in school. The reasons for this vary, but common barriers include poverty, geographical challenges, and inadequate infrastructure. UNICEF, on the other hand, reports that girls constitute 54% of the global population of out-of-school children. In regions such as South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, cultural norms, early marriages, and poverty significantly hinder girls’ ability to complete their education.
Barriers to Education for Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa
For those who are lucky enough to attend school, the quality of education and sanitation can be quite poor. In sub-Saharan Africa, many students find themselves in overcrowded classrooms with under-qualified teachers, lacking essential learning materials such as books and furniture. Most of these schools also lack basic hygiene, which is why girls are more likely to drop out of school once they reach puberty. Moreover, gender-based violence in and around educational institutions discourages many girls from continuing their studies too, making it even harder for girls than it is for boys to receive any kind of education and consequently, any kind of future. Due to these obstacles, women account for two-thirds of the world’s illiterate population, underscoring the urgent need for focused educational programs for girls.
the Global Literacy Crisis
Approximately 770 million adults worldwide lack basic literacy skills, with a large percentage residing in low-income countries and as mentioned above, two-thirds of these adults being women. Illiteracy hinders their ability to secure better job opportunities, access health information, and engage fully in society.
Addressing Gender Inequality and Cultural Challenges
These figures highlight the considerable efforts still needed to ensure that education is a universal right rather than a privilege. Education inequality is particularly severe for girls. Globally, girls encounter specific barriers to education stemming from gender discrimination, socio-economic challenges, and cultural practices. It’s enough to think that each year, around 12 million girls are married before they turn 18, often leading these child brides to abandon their education. This situation restricts their opportunities for career advancement and economic independence.
These statistics emphasise the significance of initiatives like Global Education Week, which seeks to raise awareness and garner support for the right to education, not just for girls, but for everyone.
HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED?
For us in the UK, there are usually a lot of organisations and schools that participate in Global Education Week. It would be enough to start looking around at your local café’s posters or your local Facebook groups, and I’m sure you’ll find some opportunities to participate. But in case you can’t, I’ve rounded up some initiatives you can join or support to enhance global education awareness this year.
Schools Connect
Schools Connect is the British Council’s programme for schools in the UK and around the world. They work with education policymakers to explore effective practices from other countries and help teachers to bring an international perspective to the curriculum. This supports all young people to build the skills, knowledge and attitudes they need to respond to global challenges and develop international understanding.
Awareness Campaigns on Social Media
Organisations like UNICEF UK and Plan International UK run social media campaigns during GEW to highlight the significance of inclusive education. Participants can contribute by sharing stories, statistics, and resources with hashtags like #GlobalEducationWeek and #EducationForAll.
Fundraising for Educational Charities
Groups like CAMFED (Campaign for Female Education) organise fundraising efforts to support girls’ education in sub-Saharan Africa. Individuals or teams can host sponsored events or make direct donations to the cause.
School Assemblies and Workshops
Many schools conduct special assemblies, workshops, and discussion panels on educational inequality during GEW. Inviting speakers from international NGOs or screening documentaries related to global education challenges are great ways to engage students in meaningful conversations.
Teachers can even incorporate global education themes into their lesson plans for the week. For example, students might work on projects related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals or develop presentations on education in different countries, exploring the unique challenges and opportunities worldwide.
and finally....
By participating in these initiatives, individuals in the UK can help raise awareness, contribute to global education efforts, and support the pursuit of educational equality. Global Education Week 2024 serves as an important reminder of the vital role education plays in fostering a more equitable and sustainable world.
Engaging in school programmes, supporting education-centred charities, or raising awareness—every effort counts toward the shared goal of making education accessible for everyone. As we celebrate this week, let’s keep in mind that education is not just a means for personal development; it is also a crucial foundation for building a fairer and more inclusive society.