UNESCO: Reforms needed to transform education outcomes

Quality education is at risk of becoming a privilege for a few, as highlighted in the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report. The report reveals a concerning number of 251 million children, adolescents, and youth worldwide who are out of school. This figure represents just a 1% decrease since the education goals were set in 2015 to ensure universal access to education by 2030. The report also points out a worrying trend of declining learning outcomes in reading and mathematics, particularly in middle and high-income countries outside of Africa. Manos Antoninis, Director of the Global Education Monitoring Report, emphasized the severity of the situation during a CNBC Africa interview, calling for urgent action to address these challenges. He highlighted the sub-Saharan African region as particularly impacted, with a significant number of out-of-school children and adolescents. Factors such as poverty, conflict, and demographic growth have contributed to the education crisis in this region. Moreover, wealthier countries in Africa are reducing their education budgets, exacerbating the problem. The report underscores the critical importance of sustainable funding mechanisms to address the chronic underinvestment in education, especially in poorer countries. Antoninis warned of a looming debt crisis that could further strain education budgets if not addressed promptly. He stressed the need for global cooperation and innovative solutions to tackle this complex issue. Governance, school capacity, infrastructure, and teacher standards all play a role in the education crisis outlined in the report. Antoninis emphasized the crucial role of leadership at all levels in driving reform and improving educational outcomes. From political leaders to school administrators, investing in effective leadership is key to addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the education sector. Looking ahead, the report does not paint a rosy picture for the next decade. Progress towards education goals has been sluggish, and financial constraints pose additional barriers to improvement. However, the report highlights opportunities in early childhood education and inclusive policies to drive meaningful change. Political will and leadership are essential in reshaping education priorities and addressing the unique challenges faced by African countries. By prioritizing inclusion and investing in quality education, leaders can pave the way for transformative progress similar to that seen in other regions. The call to action is clear: urgent reforms are needed to ensure that every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to thrive in a rapidly changing world.