Around the world, many girls are left behind and ignored by the education system.
Education is a powerful weapon that can pull people out of extreme poverty, yet more than 130 million girls are being left out of the education system and pushed into forced marriage, motherhood and even more sinister situations.
Protecting these vulnerable girls should be a priority for any educator. Even in countries where these issues are not realities, educators such as Sir Peter Birkett are dedicated to improving educational attainment for every student, regardless of borders.
Since founding Passion5Excellence (P5E), Sir Peter Birkett has focussed on targeted funding, technology and high-quality teaching to improve outcomes for vulnerable children across the globe.
Targeted Funding to Support Vulnerable Students
Educating a girl for a day costs less than a loaf of bread, yet there is still a staggering lack of funding to put these vulnerable students through the education system.
Educating girls to the same level as boys could provide numerous benefits to developing countries. If we do not make these investments soon, it could amount to a global academic emergency.
Domestic and international funding is crucial, and there also needs to be more accountability around spending.
Investing in Academic Technology
Technology is being used in schools around the world to enhance learning for pupils, but in developing countries it’s not as widespread.
In schools where budgets are smaller and access to resources is limited, students are going without the important technology that could help them get the most out of their education.
Improving Quality of Teaching
The final thing that needs to be addressed to improve the lives of vulnerable pupils in developing countries is improving the quality of teaching.
Social justice starts with educated girls, and there is plenty of evidence to show that an educated country is one that’s healthier and wealthier. Therefore, improving the quality of education can make a huge difference – especially when changes prioritise education for girls.
Organisations like CAMFED are doing a lot to improve the quality of teaching in developing African countries. Over 139,000 CAMFED Champions support girls and young women in their communities, and the organisation has helped girls in over 7,000 partner schools to succeed and lead.