Education for All

Education is a process with an immense power to transform lives. It is the foundation, which can support the cornerstone of sustainable human development. The solutions to problems of poverty and destitution must begin with and be based on education. Despite the economic development across the world, almost a billion people are illiterate and millions of children are denied education – a large number being girls.

The consequences of illiteracy are profound, the denial of education lowers the capacity of people to work productively, to sustain and protect themselves and their families. It severely limits the abilities of the people to become active participants of the mainstream economic development and enjoy the results. There is a high correlation between education and child mortality rates and each extra year of schooling can also translate into a reduction in fertility rates and decrease in maternal deaths in childbirth. The Indian state of Kerala is a prime example of the correlation.   The social impact of illiteracy is that it harms the causes of democracy and social progress and by extension – of international peace and security.

The problem can be solved with a cogent and focused strategy at the top level that leaves room for innovation and flexibility of approach at the operational level. Since the aspirations of the people are involved, it needs a societal movement to tackle the issue. A beginning would be made by demonstrated commitment at the political & decision making level, clearly setting deadlines with clearly articulated targets, matching resources being made available and planning for success. A lot of this is being already undertaken post the Jomtien Conference and “Education for All”.

Key learning from my personal experience at Navya (an NGO) in bringing large number of children to some kind of learning environment has validated the recommendations that include involvement of NGOs and local communities creating partnerships that improve... [continues]

Read full essay