Guest Post: Towards Inclusivity // Learning for Lasting Peace

Guest Post: Towards Inclusivity // Learning for Lasting Peace

Mary Kiguru, EFAC Country Director

In recognition of the critical role that education plays in promoting societal and personal development, peace, and prosperity, EFAC joins the rest of the world to celebrate International Education Day on January 24th, as a reminder of the importance of providing universal access to education to foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful future.

The emphasis is still on applauding and promoting fair access to information as a powerful tool for alleviating poverty and promoting communal harmony. 

While Kenya endeavors to achieve a 100% transition of students from primary to secondary school, the education sector faces significant challenges due to various crises, including poverty, marginalization, and conflict resulting in a persistently high number of out-of-school youth.

Under the theme “Learning for Lasting Peace,” this year’s celebration is particularly significant amid a surge in violent conflicts and social discrimination worldwide. The mission to advance peace and development through education has never been more crucial. 

Education for All Children (EFAC) has been a steadfast advocate for recognizing education as fundamental to community development for 15 years. By prioritizing quality education for vulnerable children, among them those affected by conflict and displacement, EFAC empowers them to become catalysts for positive change within their communities.

Through the EFAC “Wezesha” (empowerment) journey, our scholars are encouraged to see past themselves – despite their backgrounds, they realize that there is power in harnessing everything for the betterment of the community at large.

In 2024, as we contemplate the theme, we encourage individuals in the professional space to take a pivotal role in achieving this objective in their respective domains. How about we build lasting peace by supporting:

• Educational Initiatives: Professionals can support or initiate educational programs that teach tolerance, empathy, and conflict resolution skills.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Programs: Companies can channel their CSR efforts toward educational projects that aim to bridge gaps, providing educational and professional opportunities for vulnerable populations.
• Mentorship Programs: Professionals can engage in mentorship to guide young individuals toward educational, professional, and personal growth. Professionals can foster intergenerational mentoring that builds wisdom in a non-formal way to nurture confidence and reduce the time it takes to integrate into the job market and transform one’s life.  
• Advocacy for Diversity and Inclusion: Professionals can use their influence to advocate for diversity and inclusive policies, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
• Promoting Inclusive Workplaces: Fostering inclusivity within workplaces creates environments that reflect the values of peace and understanding for empowerment.

Take your place. Happy International Education Day 2024!

About EFAC

EFAC is an 8-year program serving Kenyan youth who demonstrate strong academic merit and leadership potential and who would otherwise be unable to continue their education beyond 8th grade.

EFAC supports students in their academic, social, and pre-professional development throughout high school, college, and into their careers.

EFAC is our member at Nairobi Garage // Kilimani. The company’s in-depth investment is long-lasting as the ultimate goal is the empowerment of EFAC Scholars to gain employment after post-secondary graduation, creating a path out of poverty that transforms their own lives and positively impacts their families, communities, and country.