Story: Design for Good 25th June 2024: Insights from Our Head of MEL, KanuPriya

Design for Good 25th June 2024: Insights from Our Head of MEL, KanuPriya 

 

We are delighted to share some reflections from our Head of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL), KanuPriya, who recently attended an inspiring event hosted by Design for Good. Representing Children in Crossfire, KanuPriya contributed to a dynamic panel discussion focused on the future of education, its challenges, and the transformative potential of design interventions.

 

Here are some key takeaways from the discussion: 

The Future of Education and Learning 

One of the most exciting aspects of the future of education, according to KanuPriya, is its transformative potential. Good education has the power to change individuals and societies. This potential is amplified by our growing understanding of the neuroscience of learning and the role of joy and playfulness in education. Moreover, technological advancements are making learning more accessible and democratic. The fusion of these elements promises a future where education can reach and transform more lives than ever before. 

Challenges in Delivering Quality Education 

Addressing the challenge of delivering quality education, especially in the early years, KanuPriya highlighted a critical issue: the availability and capacity of teachers. Sub-Saharan Africa faces a severe shortage, needing an additional 2 million teachers to meet the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of providing one year of pre-primary education to all children by 2030. In Tanzania what we find is that on average, there is only one qualified teacher for more than a hundred children. This means overcrowded classrooms and insufficient professional support for teachers which impedes the delivery of high-quality education. This situation contributes to a broader “learning equity crisis”, where children from poorer households are significantly less likely to be developmentally on track compared to their wealthier peers. 

Potential of Design Interventions in Education 

When considering where design interventions and innovations can make the most impact in education, KanuPriya pointed out that the focus often falls on classroom activities. However, there is immense potential in areas surrounding the classroom, such as quality assurance systems, governance structures, and especially teacher professional development. Innovations in these areas can significantly enhance the education system’s effectiveness, particularly in low and middle-income countries. 

Expectations for Collaboration with Designers 

Children in Crossfire envisions a partnership with designers rooted in a shared commitment to putting children first. Given our close collaboration with government entities, we seek design partners who respect these relationships and the unique challenges they present. Above all, we aim for a problem-solving process that is both enjoyable and impactful, creating solutions that truly enhance the quality of education. 

 

KanuPriya’s participation in the Design for Good panel underscored the importance of innovative, quality-focused, and equitable education. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities in this field, Children in Crossfire remains committed to fostering partnerships that bring joy, creativity, and transformative potential to the forefront of educational development. 

For more updates on our initiatives and collaborations, follow us on our social media channels and stay tuned to our blog. Together, we can create a brighter future for children worldwide. 

References 

  1. UNICEF. (2023). Global Report on Early Childhood Care and Education: The Right to a Strong Foundation. Retrieved from UNICEF. 
  1. TAMISEMI. (2023). Basic Education Data. Retrieved from TAMISEMI.