Global Education Faces Major Hurdles Amidst Funding Gaps and Learning Crisis

The global education sector in 2024 faces mounting challenges, especially in low- and middle-income countries where over 70% of children struggle with basic literacy. This learning crisis, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, threatens to undermine long-term economic growth, with an estim

As of 2024, the global education landscape continues to confront substantial challenges, including the widening education funding gap and a learning crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to UNESCO and the World Bank, over 70% of children in low- and middle-income countries are unable to read or understand a basic text by the age of 10. This literacy gap threatens long-term global economic growth, with projected economic losses totaling $21 trillion in lifetime earnings for the affected generation. To address this crisis, global leaders at the 2024 Global Education Meeting (GEM) in Brazil called for enhanced investments to bridge the annual $100 billion funding gap for education, especially in developing nations. They

emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive educational reforms, including the integration of digital learning technologies and ensuring equitable access to education for marginalized communities. UNESCO has spearheaded initiatives to advance educational innovation, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning systems that build resilience and adaptability in education. There is a particular focus on

vocational and digital skills to prepare students for future job markets in a rapidly evolving world economy. These efforts coincide with broader international calls to improve teacher quality, as the profession faces shortages and inadequate support, especially in underserved regions. Collaborative efforts between UNESCO, governments, and international organizations are vital to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all by 2030.


OMOR BISHWAS

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