Looking for ways to support children's right to education where you live? We've set out a number of different ways of doing that in your local community. Check it out and see if you find ideas you want to try.
When these toilets were built in a village school in India, girls came back to class. Before, they had to do their business in the grass, which was dangerous. And when girls had their periods they would not come at all.
Peer support
Offer support and encouragement to those of your peers who might face challenges in continuing their education. This can include study groups, mentorship, or simply being a supportive friend.
Children in Ottawa, Canada demand equal access to education for indigenous children.
Support for education access
Work on initiatives that help peers who struggle with school fees or other barriers to education. This could involve sharing learning materials, or campaigning for fee reductions. You can even fundraise for a friend who has left school due to their financial difficulties.
Study buddy
Volunteer at local organizations that help children with homework, or offer your services to friends and classmates. You can also assist in educational programs, or help organize events that promote learning.
Education and awareness
Organise discussion groups in your school or community to talk about the importance of education. Use these discussions to highlight challenges like school fees and lunches, cuts in recess time, and the difficulties faced by, for example, children with disabilities, and girls in accessing education. Host debates or discussion forums on topics like 'Education for all' and 'Overcoming barriers to girls' education', or 'School, not work'. These can be great ways to engage others and think critically about these issues.
Help each other with homework, like these girls in Thailand.
Fundraising and other support
Organise fundraising events like book fairs or sponsored walks to raise money for educational resources or scholarships for children in need. you can also discuss what barriers there are to children coming to school. In some rural parts of Africa and India, for example, girls do not have access to menstrual pads. A drive to either make pads or get them donated could help many girls come back to class. In other places, just getting to school can be difficult. Maybe you can think of ways to support or organize transportation for kids who can't get to school easily.
Creative expression
Use art, music, writing, or drama to convey the importance of education and its impact on life. Share your creations in school or your community to inspire others.
Advocate for change
Engage with school administrators and local leaders to discuss ways to make education more accessible and affordable for everyone. remind them that every single child has the right to go to a good school!
Remember, education shapes futures. By talking about and addressing educational challenges and opportunities, you can help ensure that everyone where you live has a chance to learn and grow.
