The first ever global report on Early Childhood Care and Education 'A Right to a Strong Foundation' by UNICEF and UNESCO came out last week. It's a really fantastic overview of the importance of education and early learning. See link in comments 👇
The report underscores the crucial role of foundational learning in enabling all children to reach their full potential and actively participate in society. We believe that the key to this is ensuring that children have a voice in shaping their own learning experiences. At the heart of our mission is the belief that children and young people can only meaningfully realise their rights if they actively and effectively participate in decisions impacting their lives and futures, especially in education. Education and child-friendly governance are inherently interconnected.
Consultations with children demonstrate this. In partnership with UNICEF, Eurochild, Save the Children International, SOS Children's Villages International and ChildFund Alliance, we conducted an EU-wide consultation with over 9,000 children. The resulting report (see link in comments 👇), "Our Rights. Our Future. The Europe We Want", revealed interesting findings:
💡 Relevance of curricula: Only 14% of children consider school teaching useful for their future, while 51% find it somewhat useful. A staggering 33% do not perceive school learning as beneficial for their future.
💡 Teaching methods: When asked what changes they would like to see in school, children clearly expressed the need for more interactive and inclusive teaching methods:
➡ 66% desire more freedom to choose study topics.
➡ 59% seek increased practical learning and skills development.
➡ 44% want more group work and interactive learning.
➡ 43% advocate for more time dedicated to learning through play or sports.
💡 Voice: 70% of children seek more opportunities to be heard overall, while 41% specifically desire more chances for students to share their ideas, with nearly half aspiring to be equal partners in finding solutions.
The overall message from children is clear: in addition to academic skills, schools should ensure that teaching methods and curricula meet the evolving needs and realities of children and equip them with critical life skills and competencies to support their transition to adulthood.
To do so effectively, it is critical to give students an effective voice in identifying challenges and solutions to ensure that the education system remains relevant and stay fit for purpose.
#Education #ChildParticipation #ChildRights #ChildandYouthFriendlyGovernance
UNESCO Tarek Alami Kerry Kassen Katie Rigg Dan F. Sven Schroeder LeAnna Marr