The Healthier Hearts Foundation has been tirelessly advocating for progress towards quality education, but the journey has been marred by setbacks exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the outbreak, the pace of advancement was inadequate, but the pandemic's toll on education has been devastating. Studies reveal that in four out of five of the 104 countries examined, significant learning losses have occurred. The outlook is grim: without decisive action, only one in six countries will reach the universal secondary school completion target by 2030. An estimated 84 million children and young people could remain out of school, with around 300 million lacking basic numeracy and literacy skills crucial for their future success. Addressing this crisis demands urgent attention and substantial resources. Currently, 79 low- and lower-middle-income countries face an annual financing gap of $97 billion to meet even the reduced benchmarks of Goal 4. It is imperative that education financing becomes a national investment priority. This entails implementing measures such as free and compulsory education, bolstering the teaching workforce, enhancing school infrastructure, and embracing digital transformation. Only through concerted efforts and sufficient investment can we ensure that every child has access to quality education, laying the foundation for a brighter future
The journey towards achieving quality education was already challenging prior to the pandemic, and the onset of COVID-19 has exacerbated the situation, leading to profound impacts on education worldwide. According to recent studies, learning losses have been recorded in four out of five of the 104 countries surveyed.
Without the implementation of additional measures, the prognosis is grim: only one in six countries is projected to meet the universal secondary school completion target by 2030. This means an estimated 84 million children and young people will still be deprived of educational opportunities, and approximately 300 million students will lack fundamental numeracy and literacy skills crucial for their future success.
Despite the revised benchmarks outlined in national Goal 4 objectives, 79 low- and lower-middle income countries still face a significant annual financing gap of $97 billion to meet their educational targets. To bridge this gap and achieve Goal 4, it is imperative that education financing becomes a top priority at the national level. Additionally, measures such as providing free and compulsory education, increasing the number of qualified teachers, improving basic school infrastructure, and embracing digital transformation are essential components of the solution.
While there has been a rise in primary and secondary school completion rates globally, progress remains slow and uneven. Between 2015 and 2021, primary school completion increased from 85 to 87 per cent, lower secondary completion rose from 74 to 77 per cent, and upper secondary completion grew from 53 to 58 per cent. However, this pace of improvement falls significantly short compared to the preceding 2000–2015 period. Regions such as sub-Saharan Africa continue to face challenges, with less than two-thirds of children completing primary school on time.
The pandemic-induced disruptions have further compounded the situation, with learning losses documented across the majority of countries studied. Addressing this issue is critical, as evidenced by recent assessments indicating declines in reading proficiency levels and widespread reports of learning setbacks due to prolonged periods of school closures.
Expanding access to early childhood education remains a priority, despite a slowdown in progress since 2015. While there have been temporary dips in pre-primary education participation, efforts must continue to ensure equitable access, particularly in regions where disparities between urban and rural areas persist.
Low levels of digital skills pose a significant barrier to achieving universal connectivity, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy programs. Similarly, ensuring access to basic school infrastructure, adequate teacher qualifications, and support for teachers in adapting to evolving pedagogical methods are all essential components of delivering quality education.
In conclusion, addressing the multifaceted challenges facing education requires a concerted effort at both the national and international levels. By prioritizing investment in education, embracing innovative approaches, and fostering collaboration, we can work towards ensuring that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
Thank you for your attention to these critical issues.
