The SDGs aim to provide free primary and secondary education for all boys and girls by 2030, alongside equal access to affordable vocational training, elimination of gender and wealth disparities, and universal access to quality higher education. Education is essential for achieving many SDGs as it helps reduce poverty, foster gender equality, and empower individuals to lead healthier, more sustainable lives. It also promotes tolerance and contributes to peaceful societies.

Progress in education was already lagging before the COVID-19 pandemic, but its impact has been severe, with four out of five of 104 countries experiencing significant learning losses. Without urgent interventions, an estimated 84 million children and youth will be out of school by 2030, and around 300 million students may lack essential literacy and numeracy skills.

Achieving Goal 4 requires prioritizing education funding. Key measures include making education free and compulsory, increasing teacher numbers, improving school infrastructure, and embracing digital transformation to ensure equitable, high-quality learning opportunities.

Source: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/education/