UNESCO: "Pandemic, Conflicts, Climate Change Deepened Inequalities in Education"

Deputy Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Xing Qu indicated on Monday that the pandemic, together with conflict, climate change, and rising food insecurity, have further deepened global inequalities in education.

Xing explained: “Added to this are increasing rates of depression and stress among young people in many contexts – fueled by fear of what the future holds, among other factors. The toll of these stressors on health and well-being are leading to increased student drop-out and teacher shortages."

In response, UNESCO outlined strong action in three key areas: closing the gender gap in school enrollment and participation; supporting education on the issues of puberty, relationships, and sexual and reproductive health; and strengthening efforts to embed health and well-being in schools, including through ensuring the provision of nutritious school meals.

On this basis, it affirmed the need to promote learning throughout life – for everyone: for active citizenship, employability, health and well-being – and the cohesion of communities.