World Creativity & Innovation Day Statement by Education Cannot Wait Director Yasmine Sherif
Today marks World Creativity & Innovation Day, a day that celebrates the human capacity for imagination, ingenuity, and innovation. On this occasion, Education Cannot Wait (ECW) Director Yasmine Sherif has released a statement highlighting the importance of creativity and innovation in the field of education.
In her statement, Sherif emphasizes the critical role that creativity and innovation play in providing quality education to the most vulnerable children and youth in crisis-affected countries. She recognizes that in the face of challenges such as conflicts, natural disasters, and displacement, traditional education systems often fail to meet the needs of children and youth, leaving them without access to quality education.
However, as Sherif points out, this is where creativity and innovation come into play. She believes that by embracing new ideas and approaches, we can create innovative solutions that can transform the education landscape and bring hope to those who have been left behind.
Sherif highlights the work of Education Cannot Wait, a global fund for education in emergencies and protracted crises, as an example of this innovative thinking. Through its innovative financing model, ECW has been able to reach over 3.5 million children and youth in some of the world’s most crisis-affected countries, providing them with access to quality education.
But Sherif also acknowledges that this is just the beginning. She believes that there is still a long way to go and more creative and innovative solutions are needed to ensure that every child and youth has the opportunity to learn and thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
In her statement, Sherif calls upon all stakeholders, including governments, donors, and the private sector, to join forces and invest in education in emergencies. She believes that by working together, we can unleash the potential of millions of children and youth who are currently being denied their right to education.
Sherif also highlights the unique role of teachers in fostering creativity and innovation in the education sector. She urges governments and partners to invest in teachers’ professional development and ensure that they have the necessary tools and resources to provide quality education in crisis-affected contexts.
Moreover, Sherif emphasizes the importance of involving children and youth in the process of finding creative and innovative solutions. She believes that by listening to their voices and involving them in decision-making, we can create more effective and sustainable solutions that truly meet their needs.
In conclusion, Sherif’s statement on World Creativity & Innovation Day serves as a reminder that creativity and innovation are essential ingredients for building a better and more inclusive world. By harnessing our collective creativity and embracing new ideas, we can pave the way for a brighter future for all children and youth, regardless of their circumstances.
On this World Creativity & Innovation Day, let us all commit to supporting education in emergencies and protracted crises and unleashing the potential of every child and youth. As Sherif says, “Let’s unleash our human capacity for creativity and innovation to create a better world for all.”
