National Education and Sharing Day

By: Nancy Massani 

“Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela

Education is the foundation of our youth, the leaders and decision-makers of the future. It provides individuals  with the skills to thrive as adults, as well as valuable information about history and various cultures. Today, the United States celebrates National Education and Sharing Day, which was first inaugurated on April 18, 1978 by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, this day has been proclaimed annually by the presiding President and calls on Americans to focus on education and the improvement of society, as well as empowering our youth to pursue their dreams. “National Education and Sharing Day is a day that was made by the United States Congress in honor of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.” It honors and recognizes his efforts for education and sharing for all people, regardless of their background.
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This day is celebrated on the anniversary of the birth of Schneerson who dedicated his life to the importance of education. Throughout his lifetime, Schneerson founded various schools and educational centers. He focused on children’s need for education, the tool that provides them the necessities and opportunities to succeed.

“Our future is written in our classrooms, and on Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A., we reaffirm our belief that no matter who they are, where they come from, or what they look like, every child deserves an education that will help them develop their unique talents and passions, dream beyond their present circumstances, and unlock their greatest potential.” - President Barack Obama

​Students invest time and energy into educating themselves to build their future. Not only is higher education important, proper early childhood education is essential in ensuring that children will continue to work toward educating themselves after graduating high school. Educating children leads to them providing a better future for their families and countries. Education has the power to make the world a better place by reducing poverty, increasing income, boosting economic growth and fostering peace.

If students in poor countries left school with basic readings skills, approximately 171 million people could rise out of poverty. Research has shown that one extra year of schooling increases an individual’s earnings by up to 10 percent. Also, each extra year of schooling raises average annual gross domestic product growth by 0.37 percent.

Research has also shown that “if the enrollment rate for secondary schooling is 10 percentage points higher than the average, the risk of war is reduced by about 3 percentage points.” In addition to these benefits, education allows people to live healthier lives as well. “Children of educated mothers are more likely to be vaccinated and less likely to be stunted because of malnourishment.”

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Higher education also contributes to the betterment of society. Higher levels of education lead to lower levels of poverty, unemployment, and incarceration rates. Those who are pursuing a college degree are also known to contribute more in society. These contributions include participating in volunteer work, community service, blood donation and voting in national elections. Students who receive a college degree obtain a wide range of benefits as well. Those who have obtained a college degree receive higher income earnings compared to those who stopped pursuing an education after high school. Therefore, it is less likely that these individuals will rely on help from the government, resulting in decreased demand on public budgets.
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However, the participation in obtaining a college degree depends on family income, parent education level, and other demographic characteristics. Children with parents who have received a college degree are more likely to display greater levels of school readiness compared to children with parents who have not received a college degree. Tuition fees are also an issue. Although there are financial aid options, loans and scholarships available, they are not always easy to obtain. Many students graduate with debt due to having to take out loans. In the end, research has shown that higher education does pay off. It benefits and delivers a high rate of return for both students and society.

Without education, people would not have the ability to communicate, read, write or even calculate. Therefore, these individuals lack the necessary skills to obtain a well-paying job, which results in families being pushed deeper into poverty. Education allows individuals to contribute not only to their community but to their country as well, which is important when ensuring the best for a community. Educated individuals are needed for jobs and to ensure our country is running successfully. It is essential for a secure future and a stable life.

The importance of CBOB is that we strive to educate individuals to help them prosper and live out their dreams and aspirations. Education is the key to ending trends of violence and displacement. With our Children Within Our Borders program, it is our mission to provide opportunities for at-risk youth in our local communities that will support and motivate them to further their education. We strive to do this by providing youth with tutoring services, creating workshops that stimulate self-esteem, interest, curiosity and innovation, and teaching sustainable life-skills.

We believe that every child, regardless of social status, race or gender, deserves a proper education. Every child deserves to live a stable life without barriers or fear and live to pursue their dreams. Children deserve a brighter future. One that breaks boundaries and goes beyond borders.

At Children Beyond Our Borders we like to think of ourselves as a family. Become a part of this family and help us work toward a future where every child receives an education.

Education = Empowerment. Add yourself to the equation.

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Sources:
http://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/days-2/national-education-and-sharing-day-changes-annually/
http://www.chabad.org/therebbe/article_cdo/aid/3306384/jewish/Education-and-Sharing-Day-USA-2016.htm
http://www.globalpartnership.org/education/the-benefits-of-education
http://www.collegeboard.com/prod_downloads/press/cost04/EducationPays2004.pdf