Comprehensive Educational Support as a Solution to Economic Migration: The Approach of Global Goal 17

Abstract:

Economic migration often results from inadequate local opportunities, compelling individuals to seek better prospects abroad. This paper examines the strategic approach of Global Goal 17 in addressing intergenerational poverty through comprehensive educational support, aiming to reduce economic migration by empowering children living under 60% of the median income in their respective countries.

Introduction:

Economic migration is a significant global issue driven by poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities. This paper explores how Global Goal 17's strategy of ending intergenerational poverty through direct educational support can address the root causes of economic migration.

Methodology:

Global Goal 17 implements a multifaceted approach, integrating educational support, holistic development programmes, community engagement, economic empowerment, and advocacy. Data and evidence from various global reports and studies are utilised to support the effectiveness of these interventions.

Results and Discussion:

1. Access to Quality Education:

Global Goal 17 provides scholarships and educational resources to children from low-income families, ensuring access to quality education. According to UNESCO, each additional year of schooling can increase a person's earnings by up to 10% in developing countries (UNESCO, 2014). Additionally, the World Bank highlights that improved school facilities are linked to better student performance and higher retention rates (World Bank, 2018).

2. Holistic Development Programmes:

The integration of sports, health education, and life skills training into educational programmes fosters well-rounded development. The Aspen Institute notes that youth sports participation is associated with higher academic achievement and better mental health outcomes (Aspen Institute, 2019). The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that addressing mental health in schools can lead to improved educational outcomes and reduced dropout rates (WHO, 2020).

3. Community Engagement and Support:

Collaborating with community leaders, teachers, and parents ensures comprehensive and locally relevant support systems. Research indicates that community involvement enhances educational success and sustainability of programmes (Harvard Family Research Project, 2016). Community-driven models are shown to be more effective and sustainable (United Nations Development Programme, 2017).

4. Economic Empowerment:

Vocational training and career guidance help children transition from education to employment, reducing economic disparities. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that vocational training increases employability and income levels, particularly for youth in developing countries (ILO, 2019). The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) emphasises that entrepreneurship drives economic growth and job creation (GEM, 2020).

5. Advocacy and Policy Support:

Effective policy advocacy can lead to systemic changes benefiting large populations. Working with governments to advocate for inclusive education and poverty reduction policies, as well as raising public awareness, has been successful in changing public attitudes and increasing support for educational initiatives (Education Policy and Data Center, 2018; UNICEF, 2019).

Impact on Economic Migration:

Global Goal 17's strategy aims to:

Reduce the Need for Migration: Providing education and economic opportunities locally reduces the need for individuals to seek better prospects abroad. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) states that improved economic conditions in home countries can significantly reduce migration pressures (IOM, 2019).

Enhance Local Economies: Educated and skilled individuals contribute to the local economy, creating a more prosperous community. The OECD highlights education as a critical factor in economic growth and development (OECD, 2019).

Improve Quality of Life: Access to education and economic resources improves living standards, reducing the push factors for migration. The World Bank states that education is one of the most effective ways to improve living standards and reduce poverty (World Bank, 2018).

Conclusion:

Global Goal 17's comprehensive strategy to end intergenerational poverty through direct educational support offers a sustainable solution to economic migration. By empowering children from disadvantaged backgrounds, the organisation transforms individual lives and contributes to the economic stability and development of entire communities. This approach aligns with the mission of creating a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive in their home country, ultimately reducing the need for economic migration.

References:

1. Aspen Institute. (2019). State of Play: Trends and Developments in Youth Sports.

2. Education Policy and Data Center. (2018). Policy Advocacy for Education Reform.

3. GEM (Global Entrepreneurship Monitor). (2020). Global Report 2019/20.

4. Harvard Family Research Project. (2016). The Impact of Family Involvement on the Education of Children Ages 3 to 8.

5. ILO (International Labour Organization). (2019). Skills for Employment Policy Brief.

6. IOM (International Organization for Migration). (2019). World Migration Report 2020.

7. OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development). (2019). Education at a Glance 2019.

8. UNESCO. (2014). Education Counts: Towards the Millennium Development Goals.

9. UNICEF. (2019). Communication for Development (C4D).

10. United Nations Development Programme. (2017). Community-Based Development.

11. WHO (World Health Organization).