Global Education Meeting
With a strong call for increased funding in literacy issues, the Global Education Meeting, held from 31 October to 1 November in Fortaleza, Brazil, provided participants with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the importance of literacy and the education of young people and adults. These are considered essential components of the right to education and lifelong learning, crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) and driving social transformation.
The event focused on the role of education in combating inequalities, transforming societies and promoting sustainable development.
During the meeting, it was highlighted that 754 million young people and adults worldwide lack basic literacy skills, of whom one-third are women. It was also emphasised that the latest Global Report on Adult Learning and Education (GRALE 5) revealed that nearly one in four countries (23%) reported adult education rates below 1%, and only 16% of the 101 countries surveyed reported rates above 50%.
Similarly, despite commitments to increase public funding for adult education, the aforementioned Report showed that, of the 102 countries surveyed, 57% allocated less than 4% of their national budgets to this area.
The Global Education Meeting concluded with the adoption of the Fortaleza Declaration, in which country representatives committed to taking measures to accelerate progress towards achieving SDG 4. This goal aims to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all, as well as opportunities for lifelong learning which are equally accessible to everyone.
Thus, the Fortaleza Declaration is considered a non-binding outcome document which consolidates the key findings of ten consultations held across all regions and constituencies, including regional organisations, civil society, teachers, youth, students, and foundations, conducted between July and September 2024 and led by the SDG-4 High-Level Steering Committee.
In an effort to explore the transformative potential of education, the Declaration also incorporates multisectoral measures related to climate and the environment; peace and human rights; gender equality; health, nutrition, and well-being; as well as science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
As key factors for accelerating progress towards the achievement of SDG 4, the Declaration identifies equity and inclusion; early childhood and foundational learning; lifelong education and skills development; teachers and the teaching profession; and governance and leadership in education.
Access the full document here.
