Why the right to education?

Over 67 million children didn’t get to go to school today. These children are forgotten and left behind simply because they were born poor, or female, or of the wrong caste or in the wrong country.Without access to an education, these children face a life of poverty, hunger, hard labour and ill health.

“Education is the most powerful weapon

which you can use to change the world

(Nelson Mandela)”

Education saves lives. When children go to school they are healthier, better-nourished and live longer, equipped with life skills to help break the cycle of poverty.

UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, is the leading global organisation working to make sure every child has access to a quality education.

Why do so many children miss out?

Many children are excluded from school because of poverty and gender discrimination. Children, in particular girls, whose family live in poverty are often forced to work to support their family, or stay at home to care for younger siblings or sick family members. In rural areas, children also miss out when there are no schools available to attend close by.

School buildings and the resources available also impact children going to school each day. Simple measures, such as access to clean water or toilets at school can mean the difference between girls and boys going to school.

To make sure all children have access to these basic services and receive a quality education, UNICEF works together with partners to establish Child-Friendly Schools.

Aren’t all schools child friendly?

Sadly, no. Many schools around the world are ill-equipped with basic resources, such as textbooks and learning materials. Large class sizes led by untrained and poorly paid teachers makes it difficult for children to learn and receive a quality education.

Child-Friendly Schools aim to establish learning environments that are safe, healthy and protective. These schools operate in the best interest of the child, with classrooms equipped with adequate resources and trained teachers as well as access to clean water, toilet facilities and hygiene education. Read more

If you believe every child deserves their right to go to school, help make a change. Celebrate UNICEF Day for Change at your school on 24th October 2012.