Education Q&A with UNESCO's Irina Bokova | Big Think

TL;DR

Investing in girls' education improves communities' standard of living, eradicating poverty and positively impacting health.

Transcript

We do believe at UNESCO and I personally am very much committed to girls' education and women's empowerment. I do believe in the first place that education is one of the best investments in order to achieve sustainability in any development but particularly girls. Because in many parts of the world girls are a synonym with poverty in the rural area... Read More

Key Insights

• 👧 Girls' education is a crucial investment for achieving sustainable development and eradicating poverty.
• 🥅 Gender parity in primary and secondary education is essential for achieving the goal of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030.
• 🎓 Education should be integrated into strategies for sustainable development, encompassing economic, social, and environmental aspects.
• 💁 Bridging the digital divide and providing access to online information are crucial for enhancing learning opportunities.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does investing in girls' education improve communities' living standards?

Investing in girls' education leads to the eradication of poverty, as educated women are more likely to care for their families and contribute positively to their communities' well-being. It also has a positive impact on health, as girls are protected from diseases and violence when they remain in school.

Q: What is the relationship between cultural values and education?

While cultural stereotypes can put girls at a disadvantage, UNESCO believes that education is a value in any society. By uniting around the idea of education being a valuable investment, involving religious leaders, implementing focused public policies, and gaining government commitments, sustainability in development efforts can be achieved without compromising cultural values.

Q: How can children's access to education be ensured globally?

It is imperative to prioritize education at the global political agenda and establish strong commitments from governments, civil society, and the private sector. Post-2015 sustainable development goals should include a goal for free access to quality education and lifelong learning for all. Bridging the digital divide and providing access to online information through broadband connectivity are also essential steps.

Q: How can education contribute to global citizenship and sustainable development?

Education should go beyond teaching and focus on learning. Through the integration of new technologies and broad access to information, young people can develop skills and cultural literacy. Education for global citizenship and sustainable development aims to create individuals who understand human rights, human dignity, communities, and the challenges at stake.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Girls' education is crucial for achieving sustainability in any development, as it helps eradicate poverty and improve living standards.

• Educated women who have received primary education take better care of their families, children, and the environment.

• Gender parity in primary and secondary education is essential for achieving the goal of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030.