Open Access Government delves into some of the priorities of UNESCO, including children’s health, well-being and education
A global study on school health and nutrition found that school feeding programs in lower-middle-income countries reach only 45% of students, dropping to 20% in low-income countries. Additionally, online interactions on social media at the age of ten are linked to worsening socio-emotional difficulties in girls as they age. Only six countries in sub-Saharan Africa have reported policies addressing school safety and non-discrimination.
Children’s health and well-being
Children’s health and well-being are influenced by various factors, including their home environment, bullying or peer violence, abuse, and a lack of physical activity and nutrition. Compounding these issues, puberty is occurring earlier than ever, and the increasing use of technology is negatively impacting young children in lasting ways. In this rapidly changing world, the education system must adapt to keep pace with these developments, UNESCO asserts.
To highlight children’s health and well-being within primary education, UNESCO is launching a new initiative called “Building Strong Foundations.” The cognitive, neurological, social, emotional, and physical development of learners aged 5 to 12 presents a significant opportunity to promote every child’s health and educational outcomes, ultimately shaping their futures. (1)
UNESCO believes that every learner deserves equal opportunities. However, millions of people around the world are still excluded from education due to factors such as gender, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, language, religion, nationality, economic status, or ability. Inclusive education aims to identify and eliminate all barriers to learning, addressing aspects from curriculum design to teaching methods.
UNESCO’s efforts in this area are guided by the UNESCO Convention against Discrimination in Education (1960), Sustainable Development Goal 4, and the Education 2030 Framework for Action. These frameworks emphasise inclusion and equity as essential foundations for providing quality education. (2)
Education at the heart of UNESCO’s mission
Education is a transformative force at the heart of UNESCO’s mission to eradicate poverty, build peace and promote sustainable development. It is a fundamental human right for everyone, throughout their lives. UNESCO is the only United Nations agency with a comprehensive mandate covering all aspects of education. It is responsible for leading the Global Education 2030 Agenda through Sustainable Development Goal 4.
UNESCO provides regional and global educational leadership, strengthens education systems worldwide, and addresses contemporary global challenges through education, focusing on gender equality as a guiding principle. Its initiatives encompass quality educational development from early childhood through higher education and beyond.
Inclusive and equitable education for all
Finally, did you know that 2024 was designated as the African Union’s Year of Education? In alignment with its commitment to the continent, UNESCO leads efforts to promote learning across Africa, aiming to provide inclusive and equitable education for everyone. Various initiatives focus on improving access to education, enhancing the quality of learning and teaching, and promoting lifelong learning opportunities, all of which positively impact the continent. (3)
References
- https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-spotlights-childrens-health-andwell-being-through-primary-education
- https://www.unesco.org/en/inclusion-education#:~:text=UNESCO%20
believes%20that%20every%20learner,nationality%2C%20economic%20
condition%20or%20ability. - https://www.unesco.org/en/education
