What is the Vicious Cycle of Poverty
Unfortunately, it is a long and challenging cycle that can run for generations. When a family lives in poverty, they usually have very limited or no access to resources or even knowledge as to how to break the cycle. This means they have few opportunities to further themselves, leaving the entire family fastened to the poverty trap.
How does Education Help Break this Cycle?
1) Safety and Support
Women and children are vulnerable to instances of sexual abuse, domestic violence, drug abuse, injury and illness. A strong community school creates a safe place for women and children to go during a crisis. Children are not left at home alone while parents work but are in school with adult supervision. Schools are usually child safety conscious in design and can be used for other community activities.
2) Increased Future Employment Opportunities
The more skilled women and children are, the greater the opportunities available to them. Having the ability to read, write, problem solve and have higher comprehensive skills will help future generations be lifted out of the poverty cycle.
3) Creates a Culture of Education and Learning Within Families
Education is often overshadowed in poor households where day to day survival is the main focus. Uneducated parents are far less likely to prioritize school attendance, encourage high school and break traditional gender roles so their daughters can learn.
When a child is successfully educated, they are more likely to pass on their knowledge to their own children in the future. They are more likely to expose their children to more enhanced learning experiences from a younger age. Education is likely to become a larger priority and expectation in their family culture.
