Dear Friends and Partners,
I am honoured to share with you the inspiring journey and impactful mission of Global Goal 17, an organisation dedicated to ending cycles of intergenerational poverty through the transformative power of education. Since our founding in 2019, we have committed ourselves to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Our mission is clear: to empower sustainable futures and end poverty through equal education for all, one child scholarship at a time.
Education as a Catalyst
Education is universally acknowledged as a fundamental human right and a powerful catalyst for social and economic change. At Global Goal 17, we believe that by providing equal-quality education, we can equip children with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to overcome socioeconomic barriers. Education is not just about learning; it’s about empowering children to envision and create a brighter future for themselves and their families. When children receive quality education, they are better positioned to break free from the chains of poverty and contribute positively to their communities.
A Holistic Approach
Our holistic approach to addressing poverty encompasses more than just education. We focus on multiple facets of development, aligning our efforts with several key SDGs. By integrating education with social inclusion and fostering cross-sectoral collaborations, we aim to create sustainable change. Our work in Kenya, through the PENDO ( Partnership in Education for National Development Outcomes) programme, exemplifies this approach, combining educational support with sports empowerment to foster community resilience and individual growth.
Long-Term Impact
The impact of our efforts is designed to be long-lasting. We recognise that breaking the cycle of poverty requires sustainable solutions, not just immediate relief. By investing in education, we are nurturing future leaders and active contributors to society. Our initiatives have shown tangible results, such as improved school attendance and enhanced academic performance. Stories of children like Faith, Christian, and Clinton, who are now pursuing their dreams with confidence, serve as testaments to the effectiveness of our programmes.
Global Citizenship
Global Goal 17 embodies the values of global citizenship through our unwavering commitment to building partnerships that transcend borders and socioeconomic divides. We collaborate with local schools, grassroots organisations, and sports clubs to create a global network of support. This inclusive approach ensures that marginalised communities are not left behind, aligning with the core principles of global citizenship. By working together, we can address systemic challenges and create a more equitable world.
Proof of Concept and Disruption
Over the past three years, our flagship initiative in Kenya has supported over 500 children through scholarships and developmental programmes. Our unique approach, which combines education with sports, engages children, teaches life skills, and promotes physical and mental well-being. We prioritise reaching the furthest behind first, ensuring that the most needy children receive the support they need. This model is innovative and replicable, representing a departure from traditional methods of placing needy children in orphanages. Instead, we advocate for inclusive learning in mainstream schools, fostering an environment where children from poor backgrounds learn alongside their peers.
Scalability and Adaptability
Our model is scalable and adaptable, ready to be implemented in various contexts around the world. With additional funding and resources, we plan to expand the PENDO programme to other regions, reaching more children and communities. The COVID-19 pandemic tested our adaptability, and we quickly transitioned to remote learning and virtual sports sessions, ensuring the continuity of our programmes. This flexibility is a cornerstone of our approach, allowing us to remain responsive and effective in our mission.
A Call to Action
Our commitment to leaving no child behind, our proven impact, innovative approach, scalable model, and adaptability make Global Goal 17 a strong candidate for partnership. We are dedicated to creating a sustainable future for all children. With the support of partners, we can significantly expand our reach and deepen our impact. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive through education, breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering a sustainable future for all.
Thank you for your continued support and belief in our mission.
Warm regards,
David Mutai
Founder, Global Goal 17