Pandemic,poverty and education: A challenge for the sustainable development goals

Abstract

COVID-19 has changed the socio-economic and educational landscape, increasing poverty rates and generating psychosocial problems. It has also conditioned the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Thus, this article pursues three-fold objectives: to describe the situation generated worldwide by the increase in poverty due to COVID-19; to analyse the degree of compliance with some post-pandemic SDGs and to establish educational measures to alleviate the psycho-pedagogical consequences. Interpretative hermeneutics is applied as it makes it possible to interpret and understand the socio-economic-educational reality and establish intervention measures adapted to the educational context. Amongst the macro measures designed, we can mention core actions such as establishing legal and motivational mechanisms to re-engage students at risk of dropping out of school; generating policies of economic and cultural compensation for possible educational inequalities; implementing school support programmes for families and students in vulnerable situations; carrying out socio-emotional learning programmes to combat anxiety, stress and self-esteem among students; establishing policies to raise awareness and appreciation of the teaching profession and stimulate collaboration between family and school; developing teacher training programmes in ICTs. At the micro level, the core actions applied are target vulnerable groups of students to overcome learning losses; promote emotional education; establish initiatives to reduce stigmatisation and discrimination; improve educational environments; and ensure equal opportunities at school.