Currently, the world is facing a learning crisis, although countries have been increasing the access to education, attending school isn’t the same as actually learning*. Globally, there are hundreds of millions of children who aren’t being taught key skills such as reading instructions or conducting basic maths before reaching adulthood. The fourth SDG goal is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education whilst promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Organisations such as UNESCO believe that education is a human right for all and that its access must be matched by quality**. Education allows individuals to make more informed decisions and can vastly improve the opportunities that people can be presented. Another important facet of education is the fact that it increases an individuals’ ability to form their own opinions. A greater amount of diverse thinkers has the potential to foster innovation, driving growth for communities and countries.
How businesses can assist with SDG 4:
Companies can directly invest into Education companies as part of their corporate social responsibility which would increase the total supply of quality education worldwide. Furthermore, financing real estate that provides education or contributes to the goal would also have a significant impact. Sponsoring teachers is considered to be a vital way of breaking the poverty cycle and organisations such as One Heart help accomplish this. A $250 donation sponsors a teacher for a full month and the effect of this is that 30 children receive the proper education that they need***.
Level 2, 74 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW, 2000
