Right to appropriate, free and quality education

Established by the International Convention on the Rights of the Child as a fundamental right, education is a foundation to achieve the sustainable development goals. Access to education for all must be ensured without discrimination.

Terre des Hommes Suisse provides children and adults with the knowledge to build a more sustainable and united future, not forgetting that at school, children are better protected against the risks of forced marriages or exploitation.

In addition, Terre des Hommes Suisse supports teachers in the adoption of participative practices that respect children’s rights: they are more attentive to children’s needs and more respectful.

Children reported feeling better protected in the school setting: they know their rights, know how to protect themselves better and know where to go in case of violence against them.

In 2019, more than 85,000 children (including 45,000 girls) have benefited from educational opportunities adapted to their age, local context and needs. Girls can stay in school longer and avoid forced marriages and early pregnancies.

"If you don't know your rights, you don't know when they are not respected and it is very easy for others to take advantage of you. Knowledge gives you security. Security makes it easier for us to face difficulties because we know where to go for help.”

Cesar, 16 years old

Colombia

Terre des Hommes Suisse considers its international work to be inseparable from its information and awareness-raising work in Switzerland. A catalogue of activities is offered to classes all over Switzerland: these activities raise children’s curiosity on themes close to their daily lives and encourage their participation through active teaching.

Awareness-raising and education about children’s rights are integrated transversally in all the actions of Terre des Hommes Suisse, as much with children and young people as with adults.

"Nowadays, our parents no longer withdraw us abusively from school. They let us continue our studies even if we are old enough to get married.”

Léa, 15 years old

Mali

The work of Terre des Hommes Suisse in relation to the right to education is in line with sustainable development goals 4 (quality education), 5 (gender equality), 10 (reduced inequalities).

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