In the bustling streets of Dhaka, Chittagong, and other urban centers across Bangladesh, the vibrant energy of the nation is starkly juxtaposed with the haunting presence of children living on the margins. These street children, alongside their peers from impoverished backgrounds, face daily struggles that many of us can scarcely imagine. In a nation where the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all, it is imperative that we address the unique challenges these children face. Achieving SDG 4 is not just a goal; it is a commitment to the future of Bangladesh and the dignity of every child.
According to UNICEF, approximately 1.5 million street children reside in Bangladesh. Many are orphaned or abandoned, while others come from families grappling with extreme poverty. These children often work long hours in hazardous conditions to support their families, leading to a cycle of exploitation and neglect. Moreover, millions of underprivileged children from rural and urban areas are unable to access education due to various socio-economic factors, leaving them vulnerable to poverty and exploitation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these issues, causing significant disruptions in education and social services. Schools were closed for prolonged periods, leaving millions without access to remote learning opportunities. For street and underprivileged children, who often lack the necessary technology and support systems, this gap has been particularly damaging.
Education is not merely a right; it is a powerful catalyst for change. Quality education provides children with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities. It fosters critical thinking, creativity, and resilience-qualities essential for personal and societal growth. For street and underprivileged children, education can be the key to breaking the vicious cycle of poverty, offering pathways to employment, better health, and civic engagement.
To fulfill the promise of SDG 4, education must be inclusive, equitable, and of high quality. This means that it should not only be accessible but also relevant and tailored to the needs of diverse learners, especially those who are marginalized.
The Bangladeshi government must take a proactive stance in achieving SDG 4. It is crucial to prioritize education in national policy frameworks and budget allocations. Increasing funding for educational initiatives, especially those targeting marginalized communities, is essential. Furthermore, the government should establish policies that promote inclusive education, ensuring that all children have equal opportunities to learn and grow.
Data collection and research are vital for understanding the specific needs of street and underprivileged children. By investing in evidence-based approaches, the government can tailor interventions to address the barriers these children face. Additionally, monitoring and evaluation frameworks should be established to assess the effectiveness of educational programs and initiatives.
Achieving SDG 4 is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of all sectors of society. Businesses, educational institutions, and civil society must collaborate to create an ecosystem that supports the educational needs of marginalized children. Corporate social responsibility initiatives can fund educational programs, while universities can engage in outreach efforts to empower local communities. By fostering partnerships and encouraging cross-sector collaboration, we can maximize resources and impact.
Ensuring quality education for street and underprivileged children in Bangladesh is not just an educational challenge; it is a social justice imperative. By committing to inclusive and equitable educational practices, we can create pathways for these children to break the cycle of poverty, enhance their life skills, and contribute positively to society.
The time for action is now. The future of Bangladesh hinges on its ability to invest in its children. Every child deserves the right to dream, learn, and thrive. In our pursuit of SDG 4, let us work together-government, communities, NGOs, and individuals-to ensure that no child is left behind. A better future awaits us, and it begins with the education of our most vulnerable children. Let us embrace this opportunity to change lives, uplift communities, and build a more equitable society for all.
The writer is founder of Noboddom Foundation 
