Using Mobile Cell Phones to Achieve SDG4

Using Mobile Cell Phones to help achieve SDG4.

SDG4 is short for Sustainable Development Goal 4, and is one of 17 goals.

The 17 goals were set up in 2015, by the United Nations.

SDG4 is concerned with education.

Specifically the goal is to provide ‘Quality Education’ for all of the worlds children and youths.

The goal also promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all of the worlds population.

However in a recent ITU (International Telecommunications Union) meeting (available on YouTube), it was stated that in 2023, only 15% of the target has been achieved.

So we are half way through the SDG goals target timeline, yet have only achieved 15% of the target.

The Challenge is Remote

One of the challenges of providing education to every child, is remoteness.

Children in isolated communities may not have access to schools.

Even if some form of school exists, a lack of teacher training, affects attainment outcomes.

So why can’t they just Google it?

The internet has revolutionised access to education for millions, but millions still don’t have access to the Internet.

In fact less than half of the worlds population still currently has no Internet access.

Factors causing this include extreme poverty, but also connectivity issues.

There are two main ways that the Internet is delivered to people.

The first is via Mobile or Cell Phone data.

The second way is via cables under the ground.

Connecting a community to the Internet via these two methods, can be uneconomic.

It can be uneconomic due to Socio-Economic and Population Density issues.

Basically what that means is the people are too poor to afford it, and / or there are two few in one place, for a telecommunications provider to make a profit.

So how can phones help?

There is now a third way of connecting to the Internet.

The third way uses standard Mobile Cell Phones, but connects to the network in a different way.

The different way is via Satellite.

Whilst Satellite phones have existed for a long time, they were specialised pieces of equipment, and used traditional Geostationary Satellites, at high orbits from the earth.

New technology using what are known as LEO, or Low Earth Orbit Satellites.

LEO Satellites orbit the earth at a much closer distance, than traditional communication satellites.

This has reduces latency.

Latency is the time it takes for the radio signal to go from earth to the satellite, and back down to earth.

Reduced latency allows for effective online learning to take place, in the same way that it can via traditional terrestrial based Internet communications infrastructure.

Direct communications to Mobile Cell Phones, from LEO Satellite, is now a reality, with several pioneering companies now operating satellites services.

This technology has the potential to help achieve SDG4, and provide Quality Education for all.

SDG4 Using Direct to Handset Satellite

SDG4 Using Direct to Handset Satellite connectivity.

Direct to handset is the connection of standard mobile phone (cell phone) handsets, straight from a communications satellite.

Traditional mobile / cell phones, connect to the nearest cell tower, on earth.

These towers only have relatively short distance communications coverage, so there are many of them, within a relatively local area.

What is SDG4

SDG4 is short for Sustainable Development Goal 4.

SDG4 is one of seventeen goals set by the United Nations (UN) in 2015, with the aim to achieve them by 2030.

The aim of SDG4 is the ensure that all children and youths, have access to ‘Quality Education’.

Although access to education worldwide, has improved over the last six decades, millions still can’t access it.

Direct to Handset communications via satellite, offers a way to help address the challenge.

Traditional mobile / cell phone connectivity is uneconomic to implement in remote areas of the world.

One reason is because of the costs associated with what is known as the ‘Backhaul’.

Backhaul is how to cell tower, is connected the the rest of the network.

Backhaul via Fibre Optic links, isn’t feasible, due to the remote locations of local populations.

Another backhaul technology used in traditional cellular networks, is satellite or microwave links.

This can solve the backhaul issue, but there is a second issue.

The second issue, is financial.

Remote communities in the poorest parts of the world aren’t exactly ‘cash cows’.

It is not financially viable, for private telecommunications companies to install infrastructure, to connect remote communities.

A dollar a day is apparently what people in many parts of the world, have to live on.

These people could not afford to pay, what the telecoms company would need to charge, to make a profit.

Good News

Direct to Handset connectivity via satellite, is now a reality.

We as a world, have the ability to connect even the remotest communities in the world.

Connecting people to the Internet will help achieve SDG4, as well as other SDG’s.

I heard on BBC Radio 4 yesterday, someone say that we are all now online.

Not true!

It is estimated that there are 2.7 Billion people, still not connected to the Internet.

Achieving the goal of ‘Quality Education’ for all, needs all people to be able to access information.

Internet connectivity and UN Sustainable Goal 4, go hand in hand, in helping meet the 2030 target.

SDG4 using direct to handset satellite, can help achieve this.

SDG4 Using LEO Satellites

SDG4 Using LEO Satellites to help achieve the UN Goal of Universal Education Access.

SDG4 is part of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, of the United Nations.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) were announced in 2015, with a target of achieving them by 2030.

SDG’s are part of a UN plan of action to end poverty, protect the planet, promote prosperity and ensure peace for all of the the world

SDG4 is focussed on Quality Education for all.

Specific Goals

The goal aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

The United Nations breaks this ambition down into specific targets, to be achieved by 2030.

Target 4.1

All girls and boys are able to complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education, leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.

This is not currently possible, with millions of children not able to access education.

Although the situation has improved in recent decades, there are estimated to still be 258 Million children and youths, out of school.

Females are affected more than males.

Target 4.2

Ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education, so that they are ready for primary education.

Target 4.3

Target 4.3 aims to ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.

Target 4.4

Substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.

Target 4.5

Eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and children in vulnerable situations.

Target 4.6

Ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy.

Target 4.7

Ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.

Target 4.A

Build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability, and gender-sensitive and provide safe, nonviolent, inclusive, and effective learning environments for all.

Target 4.B

Substantially expand globally the number of scholarships available to developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing States, and African countries, for enrolment in higher education, including vocational training and information and communications technology, technical, engineering, and scientific programs, in developed countries and other developing countries.

Target 4.C

Substantially increase the supply of qualified teachers, including through international cooperation for teacher training in developing countries, especially least developed countries and small island developing States.

These targets aim to ensure access to quality education, promote lifelong learning opportunities, address gender disparities, improve literacy and numeracy, and prepare individuals with the skills needed for sustainable development.

So how can we achieve SDG4 using LEO Satellites.

What is Vocational Training?

Vocational training, also known as technical and vocational education and training (TVET), refers to education and training that focuses on providing practical skills, knowledge, and competencies related to specific occupations or trades.

It prepares individuals for employment in specific industries or sectors by equipping them with the skills needed to perform specific job roles.

Vocational programs often offer hands-on training, industry-specific knowledge, and practical experience that enable individuals to enter the workforce directly or enhance their existing skills for career advancement.

These programs can vary in duration and intensity, ranging from short courses or certifications to longer-term apprenticeships or diploma programs.

The key objectives of vocational training include:

  1. Skill development: Vocational training aims to develop specific technical and practical skills required for a particular occupation or trade. This includes both technical skills, such as operating machinery or using specialised tools, and soft skills, such as communication and teamwork.
  2. Employability: By focusing on practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, training programs aim to enhance employability and job prospects for individuals. They help bridge the gap between education and the needs of the labour market by providing relevant skills that match industry demands.
  3. Industry relevance: Vocational training programs are designed in consultation with industries and employers to ensure that the skills taught align with the current and future needs of the job market. This helps to address skills shortages, promote economic growth, and support industry development.
  4. Lifelong learning: the training recognises the importance of continuous learning and upskilling throughout one’s career. It encourages individuals to acquire new skills and adapt to changing technologies and work environments, promoting lifelong learning opportunities.

The training can encompass a wide range of fields, including but not limited to construction, manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, hospitality, automotive, and agriculture.

It plays a vital role in preparing individuals for employment, promoting economic development, and addressing the skills gap in various industries.

Vocational Training in the context of SDG4

Vocational training is a target within SDG4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all.

The specific target is to provide equal access to affordable vocational training, technical education, and higher education.

This means that the training focuses on practical skills and work-related education, along with higher education opportunities.

It recognises the importance of practical skills in preparing individuals for the job market, promoting economic growth, and meeting industry needs.

Vocational training is seen as an essential part of the education system, equipping individuals with the skills they need for employment and sustainable development.

It empowers people, especially young individuals and adults, by giving them the knowledge and practical skills required for meaningful work and entrepreneurship.

Including it in SDG4 emphasises the need for a well-rounded education system that meets diverse learning needs.

It acknowledges that education is not just about academic knowledge, but also about acquiring practical skills that are crucial for success in the workforce and making positive contributions to society.

What is Sustainable Development Goal 4

SDG4 refers to Sustainable Development Goal 4, which is one of the 17 global goals established by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

SDG4 specifically focuses on education and aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

The key targets of SDG4 include:

  1. Ensure that all girls and boys have access to free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education.
  2. Ensure equal access to affordable vocational training, technical education, and higher education for all.
  3. Eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable groups.
  4. Ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.
  5. Ensure all youth and a substantial proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy.
  6. Promote inclusive education and provide adequate support to children with disabilities.
  7. Ensure that all schools provide safe, inclusive, and effective learning environments.
  8. Increase the supply of qualified teachers, particularly in developing countries.
  9. Increase investment in educational infrastructure and improve resource allocation for education.

SDG4 recognises that education is a fundamental human right and a critical factor in achieving sustainable development.

It emphasizes the importance of inclusive and quality education for all, regardless of gender, socioeconomic background, disability, or geographic location.

By addressing the various targets of Sustainable Development Goal 4, countries can work towards providing accessible and inclusive education systems that equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to society.

Using LEO Satellites to Provide Education For All

Using LEO satellites to provide Education For All.

Education For All, is a long term ambition of the United Nations (UN).

However the target of every child having access to Primary School education by 2015, was not achieved.

LEO

LEO is short for Low Earth Orbit.

It is a type of communications satellite, that as the name suggests is in a low orbit.

LEO satellites circle the earth, and are wirelessly or optically linked.

This provides total communications coverage, wherever you are located in the world.

One popular use for LEO satellites, is the provision of satellite Internet.

Companies like Starlink and Oneweb, provide such services, but there are many other LEO satellite operators.

Satellites For Education

It is possible to connect to the Internet, using ‘traditional’ satellites.

Traditional satellites are much further away from the earth, and cover a large area of the earths surface.

This surface coverage, is known as the satellite footprint.

Being further away from the earth, results in signal delay.

This is because radio signals, take a small amount of time to travel.

As traditional satellites may well be in an orbit 36,000 miles from earth, then there is a delay.

This causes issues when trying to use it for e-learning, which may involve live video connections.

LEO has less signal delay, as the satellites are only hundreds of miles above the earth, not thousands.

So know hopefully you understand that LEO satellites can provide reliable online learning, and worldwide Internet coverage.

Using LEO Satellites to provide education for all

Further Reading Links:

Publications | Global Education Monitoring Report (unesco.org)

SDG4 UN Sustainable Development Goal 4

Sustainable Development Goal 4 or SDG4 for short, is one of the 17 goals established by the United Nations as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. SDG 4 focuses specifically on education and aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

The targets associated with SDG4 are as follows:

4.1: Ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education.

4.2: Ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education.

4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.

4.4: Substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.

4.5: Eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable groups.

4.6: Ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy.

4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles.

4.A: Build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability, and gender-sensitive and provide safe, nonviolent, inclusive, and effective learning environments.

4.B: Substantially expand globally the number of scholarships available to developing countries, in particular least developed countries, small island developing states, and African countries, for enrolment in higher education, including vocational training and information and communications technology (ICT) programs.

4.C: Increase the supply of qualified teachers, including through international cooperation for teacher training in developing countries, especially least developed countries and small island developing states.

SDG 4 recognises the importance of education as a fundamental human right and as a crucial driver of sustainable development. It calls for efforts to ensure equal access to quality education at all levels and to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed for personal development, employment, and active participation in society.

Education For All

Education for all is a stated objective of UNESCO, which is part of the United Nations (UN), and targets were agreed back in 2000.

Article 26 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “everyone has a right to education”.

But they don’t!

According to the UN (Education For All | United Nations) 57 Million children, don’t attend school.

TBC…

Digital Nomad Teacher

Is it possible for a qualified teacher, to transition from the classroom to becoming a Digital Nomad Teacher?

I’m Craig, and currently teach three days a week, at an English Secondary School, teaching Design Technology.

Today is Tuesday 16th May 2023.

Could I swap the classroom, for a Digital Nomad Lifestyle?

That’s what I intend to find out.

Google ain’t helping much.

A quick Google for teaching as a digital nomad, comes up with lots of information, about teaching English as a foreign language.

That’s great, but what about those who have teaching qualifications, such as a PGCE, a Teacher registration number, and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)?

I couldn’t find much information about swapping a classroom in a physical school building, for a much freer way of life.

This post will be added to and expanded, as my journey from being tied to a classroom, to being a location independent teacher, unfolds.