Wyoming delegation, please help get READ Act for basic education reauthorized
Wyoming delegation, please help get READ Act for basic education ... Wyoming Tribune
Why America’s Students are Not Showing Up: A Global Issue
The Problem of Student Absenteeism
Earlier this month (Oct. 7), the WTE ran an editorial from Bloomberg titled “Why aren’t America’s students showing up?” The editorial delved into the reasons behind this issue, ranging from a devaluation of education to parental neglect and a lack of interest in human contact post-pandemic. Regardless of the underlying reasons, this problem raises deeply troubling questions for our society.
This problem is not exclusive to the United States; it is a global issue, particularly prevalent in lower- and middle-income countries. While the causes may differ, they are easier to understand and address. In some countries, schools closed during the pandemic and have yet to reopen. The economic impacts of the pandemic have limited families’ ability to pay for education, forcing children to rely on their own income. In desperate situations, families may even resort to selling their daughters into marriage to raise money and reduce their financial burden. Unfortunately, once married, these girls are unlikely to return to school.
Addressing the Issue through Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The problem of student absenteeism aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. These goals aim to address global challenges and improve the lives of people worldwide. The following SDGs are particularly relevant:
- SDG 4: Quality Education – Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
By focusing on these SDGs, governments and organizations can work towards addressing the underlying issues that contribute to student absenteeism. This includes reopening schools, providing financial support to families in need, and promoting gender equality to prevent child marriages.
Conclusion
The issue of student absenteeism is a pressing concern both in the United States and globally. It highlights the need for concerted efforts to ensure access to quality education, address economic disparities, and promote gender equality. By aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals, we can strive towards a more inclusive and equitable society where every child has the opportunity to receive an education.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 4: Quality Education
- Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education.
- Indicator: The article mentions that some schools closed during the pandemic and haven’t reopened, leading to a lack of access to education for many children.
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SDG 5: Gender Equality
- Target 5.3: Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early, and forced marriage.
- Indicator: The article mentions that families sold their daughters into marriage to raise money, indicating the prevalence of child marriage as a harmful practice.
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SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor.
- Indicator: The article mentions that economic impacts limited families’ ability to pay for education, leading to increased reliance on income their children could earn. This implies the presence of child labor as a result of economic difficulties.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
---|---|---|
SDG 4: Quality Education | Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education. | The article mentions that some schools closed during the pandemic and haven’t reopened, leading to a lack of access to education for many children. |
SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.3: Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early, and forced marriage. | The article mentions that families sold their daughters into marriage to raise money, indicating the prevalence of child marriage as a harmful practice. |
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | Target 8.7: Take immediate and effective measures to eradicate forced labor, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labor. | The article mentions that economic impacts limited families’ ability to pay for education, leading to increased reliance on income their children could earn. This implies the presence of child labor as a result of economic difficulties. |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: wyomingnews.com
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