Author: Integral World

Quality education serves as a beacon of hope, offering children worldwide the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to break free from the clutches of poverty. Nevertheless, numerous children encounter formidable obstacles on their journey to access education, with cultural norms and economic hardships acting as roadblocks to their academic aspirations.

In the heartwarming documentary, “On the Way to School,” we are granted an intimate glimpse into the arduous daily journeys undertaken by four resilient students from Kenya, India, Morocco, and Argentina. These young learners, akin to countless others across the globe, grapple with substantial challenges even before they set foot in their classrooms each morning.

Global Goal 4, a noble aspiration, aims to make inclusive and quality education accessible to all. While there has been a progressive increase in primary school enrollment rates, the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 resulted in a staggering 90% of all students being forced out of school at one point. This crisis not only disrupted the education of millions but also exacerbated existing inequalities in the realm of learning.

“On the Way to School” is a poignant reminder that the journey towards education is often as significant as the destination itself. It underscores the unwavering determination of these young students and calls upon us all to support the noble cause of ensuring every child’s right to inclusive and quality education, regardless of the challenges they face along the way. In a world where knowledge is the key to unlocking opportunities, it is our collective responsibility to pave a smooth path to education for every child, ensuring they have the chance to break free from the cycle of poverty and realize their full potential.

In 2008, a thought-provoking documentary emerged, shedding light on the ambitious Global Goal 1: the eradication of poverty on a global scale. This impactful film delves deep into the real-life stories of individuals ensnared in poverty’s grip, while also spotlighting the glaring economic disparities that persist worldwide.

Within this documentary, a coalition of historians, economists, and psychologists collaborates to dissect the intricate systems that perpetuate widespread poverty. Together, they offer groundbreaking insights into both the root causes of poverty’s endurance and the innovative solutions required to bring about its ultimate demise.

Released by the United Nations in September, this film seeks to elucidate the imperative actions required to attain the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic has dealt a severe blow, erasing years of progress toward achieving the Global Goals. It has pushed millions into poverty, exacerbated gender inequalities, and disrupted access to education. The international community was already veering off course in meeting the goals’ 2030 targets, and the pandemic has disproportionately impacted the world’s most vulnerable populations.