From allowing children to meet new people, to building their confidence and giving them essential skills, education is more than just about scoring highly on exams. Around the world, education plays a significant role in the development of young people, but above this, in many countries, it is alternative to what would otherwise be the inevitable fate of child marriage or hard labour. 

According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, education is a right for every child, and is essential in molding their personalities and talents. By being in school, students are also able to work on both their mental and physical abilities, allowing them to dream big and fulfil their ambitions. 

Currently, there are over 61 million children who don’t attend primary school, a staggering statistic, which could result in poor health, dangerous situations and poverty. With decades of experience in the humanitarian field, Impact has seen first-hand the results of education in communities, particularly where poverty is rife. 

From the Syrian refugee camps in Lebanon, where young girls are often married off at young age due to no other alternatives, to Afghanistan where the dire economic situation forced parents to sell their daughters to alleviate the financial burden, education has saved many lives. 

While many children in conflict areas especially may have experienced trauma and displacement, education is a welcome start to normality again, where they can focus on having fun with their friends and enjoying their time. After visiting countless disadvantaged communities from around the world, Impact has focused its efforts on ensuring that formal education is made accessible to young children, with well-trained staff who are able to make young people feel comfortable and welcome. 

We have had many success stories, from seeing young children embrace their identity, to learning a new language, and working hard towards their career ambitions. Formal schooling also protects young people from being swept up into gangs, where crime may be common. By attending a school, children are able to have a better quality of life, and learn instead of worrying about making a livelihood.

Impact is committed to supporting education for all globally, so that every child gets the right to attend school and dream big, regardless of their financial situation, gender or ethnicity.