In 2021 the UNESCO Institute for Statistics published SDG 4 data digest 2021: national SDG 4 benchmarks: fulfilling our neglected commitment. The report shows that Peru is still struggling with quality education compared to other countries.
By: Irina Quispe
As the title of this short article states, its benchmark submission status is “plans without targets.” Hence, more steps are needed to achieve the seven indicators selected internationally: early childhood attendance, out-of-school rates, completion rates, gender gaps in completion rates, minimum proficiency rates in reading and mathematics, trained teachers, and public education expenditure.
Although the government plays an essential role in setting educational targets and financing them, youth should not sit idly by. So let’s take a closer look at what we can do to promote lifelong learning opportunities.
Offering quality education is a highly complex objective for one to achieve. For this reason, developing a collaborative team focused on SDG 4 is necessary. On its website, the National Youth Secretariat (SENAJU) of the Peruvian Ministry of Education has published a database with the information of 900 official youth organizations. It includes name, category, founders, members, and contact information. Additionally, websites like PROA can be used to stay informed about volunteering announcements, deadlines, requirements, etc.
However, as a Peruvian teenager, I know that most programs require their members to be 18 years or older. In that case, creating educational projects at school could be an option. Projects do not need to be complex to have an impact. You can give free tutorships, offer to teach languages, or share scholarship announcements with everyone. Additionally, you can go beyond by working for your community. For example, by helping your relative use a computer, you can begin an initiative of teaching digital skills to your neighbors.
To conclude, these suggestions require two important things: time and knowledge. Before joining a project, you should ask yourself: “Do I know how to manage my time?” and “Do I know how to share my knowledge?” It is fundamental to reflect on those points since you will need to interact with others and use your soft skills. Be careful because, despite your good intentions, you can be stressed out due to a weak plan. If you realize you cannot handle school and projects, please do not worry. Learn everything and dive deeper into what you are interested in because you will use that information to cause an impact in your community. Do not be afraid to wait till your time is ripe.