Unlock Potential: 5 Actionable Steps to Get More Kids in School

Education is a constitutional right, yet it remains a luxury for countless children in India. While the numbers are improving, some children still miss out on education, the key that unlocks their brighter future. Let’s be honest. Can you imagine living your current life if education wasn’t a part of it? Most of us can’t, and that makes it crucial to support the ones who merely need an opportunity to turn their lives around. So, how can you, as an individual, become a catalyst for education and get more kids ringing the school bell?

Here’s how you can ensure more children get access to quality education:

You might have a voice in your head that says, ‘But what can I do alone?’ The answer is that you alone can start the chain of change the world currently needs. Take the first step, and the rest will follow!

1) Get to the roots

The best way to start your journey towards impact is to understand the root causes of why children are still not in school. Poverty, child labor, and a lack of access to proper facilities and information are some of the main culprits. Imagine a family having to choose between putting food on the table and educating their child. Here, education might seem like a luxury they can't afford. Understanding these challenges allows you to target your efforts effectively.

2) Use your voice for policy implementation

One of the major reasons for children being out of school is a lack of information and poor implementation of policies meant to help the cause. Research and educate yourself on the education laws and initiatives that promote education, particularly those focused on underserved communities. Raise your voice by contacting your local representatives and making sure the policies are designed for the benefit of the children and are implemented to get the best results. Some examples could be promoting free school meals, constructing sanitized student toilets, providing scholarships for marginalized children, and providing parent counseling.

3) Contribute to education

Schools are the engines of education, but they need fuel to run. You can support them by funding the construction of a library, or a toilet, or simply donating essential supplies to children! You can also organize donation drives in your community to collect stationery, books for the library, and even basic hygiene products. CSR plays a huge role in promoting education. You can leverage this by encouraging local businesses to contribute their part in uplifting the community. Every pencil and every notebook is a small but significant step towards a more empowered future for a child.

4) Volunteer your time

A little nudge in the right direction or a few words of comfort is all we need sometimes. If you have the time to spare, consider sharing it with those who care. Share your expertise and volunteer your time at after-school programs or with an NGO that works for education. Even a few hours a week spent mentoring children, giving out care packages, or offering career guidance can make a difference. Imagine the impact you can have by igniting a child's passion for a particular subject or helping them chart their educational and professional path.

5) Support NGOs working towards education

There's strength in collaboration, and a multitude of NGOs are dedicated to providing education access to underserved communities. Research organizations that align with your values and interests and join them in making an impact. You can support them by volunteering your time and skills, or even by fundraising within your community. Whether it's an organization working on large-scale educational initiatives or a local group providing support to a specific region, every contribution counts.

Think of a world where every child, regardless of background, skips down the path to school, eager to learn and explore. This isn't just a utopian dream; it's a reality we can work towards together. The fight for universal education is ongoing, but the rewards are immeasurable. By becoming a champion for education, you're creating a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential. So, what are you waiting for? Join us at the Giving for Good Foundation and start your journey today by donating school supplies for one child and building a world where education rings true for all!

Exclusively written for Giving for Good Foundation by Bhairavi Hiremath