“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”

Guess who said that? No, it wasn’t me. But I wish it was, because I believe the most important human right is the right to education. The aim of this campaign is to ensure that everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, gets a good education. 

Find out how you can take part in this campaign by emailing me at [email protected]

200 million children

Every year, over 200 million children under the age of five will not reach their full potential. This is due to world leaders’ broken promises, poverty, nutritional deficiencies and inadequate care and learning opportunities. Most of these children live in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. 

Breaking the poverty cycle

Due to this poor start in life, the cycle of poverty is more likely to continue. Education is the key to reducing poverty. It’s the best tool to reduce hunger, create political stability and empower women in developing countries. 

If all students in low-income countries left school with basic reading skills, 171 million people could be lifted out of poverty. According to UNESCO, this is equivalent to a 12% cut in world poverty. 

The big picture

As part of the campaign, people all around the world are being encouraged to send in photos of what they think a good early childhood looks like. Have a look at some of the photos that have been sent in so far.

Event in Dublin

Concern, EIL Intercultural Learning and the Irish coalition for the Global Campaign for Education are hosting an event to mark the start of the campaign. This event will take place on Sunday 22 April between 11am to 12 outside the Stephen’s Green Centre at the top of Grafton Street in Dublin. Please come along and have fun!

Wise words

By the way, the quote that began this blog post was from BB King. His words ring through for all people, especially those living in poverty.

More information

• For more information about the campaign, email me at [email protected]
• As part of our charity work, Concern runs education programmes in 12 countries