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Education Cannot Wait: A Call to Action for Africa's Children

On June 16, every year, the world acknowledges African Children's Day, a day to celebrate the courage, resilience, and dreams of millions of children across Africa. In this spirit, Yasmine Sherif, the Executive Director of Education Cannot Wait (ECW), has made a passionate plea for prioritizing educational investments in Africa, where the potential of its youth remains untapped.

The Importance of Education

Education is the backbone of a strong economy and a peaceful society. In fact, the World Bank estimates that foundational learning can double the GDP per capita in sub-Saharan Africa by 2050. Furthermore, a recent analysis indicates that every dollar invested in increasing preschool enrollment in the region can yield up to $33 in return. This underscores the critical necessity of investing in the next generation's education.

An Urgent Need for Action

Despite these possibilities, a worrying number of children are currently marginalised. According to Education Cannot Wait, nearly half of the 234 million school-age children affected by crises live in sub-Saharan Africa. Poverty, conflict, and crises have left many children without access to basic education. Alarmingly, four out of five African children cannot read or comprehend a simple text by the age of ten.

To counteract these dire circumstances, a robust commitment is needed towards quality education for the continent's youngest and fastest-growing population. ECW has already made significant strides, assisting over 7.4 million girls and boys by focusing on foundational learning initiatives, gender equality, teacher training, and psychosocial support. This holistic approach embraces the full development of the child, recognizing that education must meet emotional and psychological needs alongside academic ones.

A Call for Global Support

In light of these pressing challenges, ECW calls upon global leaders, donors, and the private sector to step up funding for education in emergencies. Financial support through proven multilateral funding solutions, such as those provided by Education Cannot Wait, is instrumental in developing resilient educational systems. These systems aim to improve access to inclusive, lifelong, and high-quality learning opportunities across the continent.

As we reflect upon African Children's Day, it is paramount that we maintain hope and dedication to Africa's children. Education is not only a fundamental right but also an investment in the future of an entire continent. By taking action now, we can transform Africa's socio-economic landscape and fulfill the promises of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Conclusion

Education is an investment that benefits everyone. Let's remember the dreams of Africa's children and ensure that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive. The future of Africa depends on the opportunities we create today through education. We must act, because the potential is limitless when we invest in our youth.