UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres put it succinctly: “Education is the most powerful tool we have to transform our world and eradicate poverty. It is a fundamental human right.”

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4), is a commitment to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. This goal is a pivotal driver for positive change, emphasising the transformative power of education in creating a sustainable and equitable world.

The role of education

The level of poverty in Ecuador means many children are forced to work to bring in money for their families instead of being able to go to school.

But education can be a game changer for working children, acting as a route out of poverty. It opens up a world of opportunities they may otherwise not have, improving a child’s chance for a better future. 

Here are just a few ways education can create a brighter future for the children we support:

• Economic empowerment: An education opens doors to better paying jobs, longer term employment opportunities, and improved living standards.
  
• Access to resources and services: Educated people are often better informed about their rights and available resources, such as healthcare, legal aid, and financial services, helping them improve their economic situation.
  
• Health awareness: Education equips people with knowledge about health, nutrition, hygiene, and family planning leading, to healthier lifestyles and more informed choices.
  
• Reduction of crime: Higher levels of education are linked to lower crime rates. Education provides individuals with legitimate opportunities for success, reducing the likelihood of them turning to crime as a means of survival.
  
• Educational opportunities for future generations: Educated parents are more likely to invest in their children’s education, creating a positive feedback loop that improves the lives of future generations, breaking the cycle of poverty.

How we help 

Our mission is to enable Ecuadorian street and working children and marginalised youth to create a better future for themselves and their families. 

By funding our partners, we help them to change the futures of hundreds of children. They provide daily services to support all ages of children, from pre-schoolers to school leavers:

• Pre-school playgrounds: UBECI provides a safe place for younger children to play, socialise and learn vital development skills.
  
• Specialist schooling: CENIT offers a fast-track and specialised education programme taking into account the unique circumstances of older children who are unable to attend mainstream school due to their age and stigma around working children.
  
• Vocational training: CENIT offers programmes to some older children and their families to give them skills to take into the workplace.
  
• Homework support: UBECI provides an after-school service to help children in or out of the mainstream education system complete their homework.

How can you help us?

To help this vital work to continue, you can donate to support the ongoing services, undertake a fundraising activity or volunteer your time to help us with our central fundraising activities.