Infoineed.com
Can you imagine never learning how to read or growing up without Internet access? What would your life be like? Now imagine children in Africa who live this reality every day. Organizations and individuals from around the globe work to remedy the lack of educational opportunities in Africa. They hope to bring a climate of change to the world’s second largest continent.
What is education like in Africa?
According to Canada-Africa Development and Relief Agency, or CADRA, “Education is a fundamental human right and the basis for creating social change.” Yet millions of children in Africa do not have access to classroom materials like pencils or books. Internet access, a standard educational tool in the U.S., is severely limited. Fewer than two percent of African children who are privileged enough to attend school go on to college.
Along with limited educational resources, civil wars, poverty and AIDS prevent children from receiving an education. Often, the struggle to survive outweighs the possibility of attending school.
Education is exactly what the continent needs, however. An educated community thinks and acts differently. With education, future generations of Africans could see a decrease in war, poverty and illness.
What kind of education does Africa need?
The educational needs in Africa vary. As the poorest and most vulnerable citizens remain illiterate, they continue the cycles of poverty, ignorance and conflict. They need a basic education in traditional school subjects but also in life skills, technology, conservation and business management.
Africa’s natural resources range from safari animals to buried minerals. Left in its current state, the continent faces mismanagement and a dim financial future. Educating Africa’s human resources would preserve and conserve the entire continent.
Are there educational programs in Africa?
A variety of educational programs exists with the goal of educating as many Africans as possible. While these programs differ in their scope and purpose, all make an effort to better the continent.
Develop Africa offers books, scholarships, teacher training, microfinance and job skills training, for starters. Based in the U.S., this program seeks to rebuild Africa’s resources along with its infrastructure.
CADRA seeks to expand educational opportunities by providing Internet access. They work with local organizations to provide education and other community improvements.
How are missionaries involved in education?
In addition to non-profit groups, missionary organizations of all denominations work to improve Africa’s future.
Christian Mission Aid focuses on the educational needs of Africa’s citizens. With roots in relief and development, the organization brings hope to African families while providing school supplies, healthcare and other necessities.
Missionaries of Africa works to build a bridge between reality and possibility. With educational programs geared toward children and adults, they provide practical resources.
How would the continent of Africa be different if every African child could read? How would Internet access change the face of the continent? How can you help to make this dream a reality?
- Volunteer to go and teach.
- Finance the insurance for missionaries to Africa.
- Send school supplies.
- Sponsor a child.
- Donate to educational organizations.
- Share the need with your social circle.
Use your resources to participate with global organizations in educating the world’s second largest continent. Millions of children need you to give them a brighter future.
Image Courtesy: Microsoft
