Foundation Laments Millions Out-of-School-Children Worldwide, Says They Risk Left Behind Increasing Technology-Driven Worldwide

…Suggest ways of addressing the Crisis via STEM Innovation

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

Education is the foundation of any thriving society, yet millions of children around the world remain out of school, deprived of the knowledge and skills needed to secure a better future, expert and founder, Caleb Danladi Foundation (CDF), Capt.Caleb Danladi Bako has said.

Capt. Bako who disclosed this in a statement recently, also expressed fears that the crises is particularly severe in developing nations, where poverty, conflict, and inadequate infrastructure created insurmountable barriers to formal education.

He said without urgent intervention, these children risk being left behind in an increasingly technology-driven world, perpetuating cycles of poverty and limiting national development.

To break this cycle, the CEO CDF said it is essential to harness the power of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) innovation to create inclusive, accessible, and transformative learning opportunities for out-of-school children.

According to him, the global shift towards a digital and knowledge-based economy demands a workforce equipped with STEM skills.

He however stated that, “millions of children lack access to even the most basic education, let alone exposure to advanced subjects such as coding, robotics, or artificial intelligence”.

Accordingly , he also noted that traditional classroom models, while effective in structured environments, failed to reach marginalized children who live in remote areas, conflict zones, or impoverished communities.

“This is where innovation through STEM can play a transformative role by offering flexible, scalable, and engaging learning solutions.

“One of the most promising approaches to addressing this crisis is the use of technology-driven education. Digital learning platforms, mobile applications, and virtual classrooms provide opportunities for children to acquire foundational knowledge even in the absence of physical schools.

“Low-cost tablets, solar-powered learning centers, and mobile education buses can bring lessons to children in underserved regions, allowing them to learn at their own pace.

‘Interactive STEM programs that incorporate gamification and hands-on experiments can also make learning more engaging, ensuring that children develop problem-solving skills and creativity from an early age.

“Innovation in STEM education also opens the door to alternative pathways for skill acquisition. Many out-of-school children are forced into informal labor at a young age, limiting their ability to pursue conventional education.

‘By integrating STEM-based vocational training into community programs, children can acquire marketable skills in fields such as renewable energy, digital technology, and engineering.

“These skills not only prepare them for employment but also empower them to become entrepreneurs and innovators in their communities.

“A young girl who learns to build solar panels or repair electronic devices, for instance, gains the ability to contribute to her local economy while securing a sustainable livelihood.

‘Partnerships between governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector are critical in scaling up these solutions.

“Policymakers must recognize that traditional education systems alone cannot bridge the gap, and there must be investments in alternative learning models that leverage STEM. Organizations committed to education reform must collaborate with technology companies to develop affordable and accessible STEM learning tools.

“Community-driven initiatives, supported by local leaders and educators, can ensure that programs are tailored to the specific needs of children who are outside the formal school system.The Caleb Danladi Foundation is committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to quality education.

“Through targeted STEM initiatives, we aim to provide innovative learning solutions that equip out-of-school children with the knowledge and skills to build better futures.

“Our vision is to create a world where no child is denied the opportunity to learn, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. By embracing STEM innovation, we can break down educational barriers, uplift communities, and build a generation prepared to meet the challenges of the future.

“The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. As the world advances technologically, failure to equip children with the right skills will lead to widening inequalities and lost potential. Investing in STEM-based solutions for out-of-school children is not just an educational necessity it is an economic and social imperative.

“If we are to create a brighter future, we must act now, ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge and opportunity.Caleb Danladi Bako is the CEO and Founder of Caleb Danladi Foundation’ , he stated.