Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Education
UNICEF warns of continued damage to learning and well-being as number of children affected by school closures soars again
Excerpts from article by Unicef
The number of schoolchildren affected by COVID-19-related school closures soared by 38 per cent in November, placing significant strain on the learning progress and well-being of an additional 90 million students globally.
According to data collected by UNESCO, classrooms for nearly 1 in 5 schoolchildren globally – or 320 million – are closed as of 1 December, an increase of nearly 90 million from 232 million on 1 November. In contrast, the month of October saw the number of schoolchildren affected by school closures decrease nearly three-fold.
“In spite of everything we have learned about COVID-19, the role of schools in community transmission, and the steps we can take to keep children safe at school, we are moving in the wrong direction—and doing so very quickly,” said Robert Jenkins, UNICEF Global Chief of Education. “Evidence shows that schools are not the main drivers of this pandemic. Yet, we are seeing an alarming trend whereby governments are once again closing down schools as a first recourse rather than a last resort. In some cases, this is being done nationwide, rather than community by community, and children are continuing to suffer the devastating impacts on their learning, mental and physical well-being and safety.”
When schools close, children risk losing their learning, support system, food and safety, with the most marginalized children – who are the most likely to drop out altogether – paying the heaviest price. And, as millions of children remain out of their classrooms for more than nine months, and many more are re-living the upheaval, UNICEF fears that too many schools are closing unnecessarily, and not enough emphasis has been placed on taking the necessary steps to make schools safe from COVID-19.
A recent global study using data from 191 countries showed no association between school status and COVID-19 infection rates in the community. With little evidence that schools contribute to higher rates of transmission, UNICEF urges governments to prioritize reopening schools and take all actions possible to make them as safe as possible.
School re-opening plans must include expanding access to education, including remote learning, especially for marginalized groups. Education systems must also be adapted and built to withstand future crises.
UNICEF’s Framework for Reopening Schools, issued jointly with UNESCO, UNHCR, WFP and the World Bank, offers practical advice for national and local authorities. The guidelines focus on policy reform; financing requirements; safe operations; compensatory learning; wellness and protection and reaching the most marginalized children.
“What we have learned about schooling during the time of COVID is clear: the benefits of keeping schools open far outweigh the costs of closing them, and nationwide closures of schools should be avoided at all costs,” said Jenkins.
Career
5 tips to embark on a career in art
Excerpts from article by Amrita Deora, published in India Today
Only those who are passionate about art can understand the magnetic pull that demands you to pursue your dreams in this exquisite subject. A journey in the field of art is unlike any other industry, owing to its subjective and emotionally charged nature. Here are a few tips for those art enthusiasts trying to make inroads into this enchanting, but daunting field.
Here are 5 tips to embark on a career in art:
1. Be true to your craft
When embarking on a journey in the business of art, it’s crucial to build the discipline of remaining true to one’s craft. Being so deeply immersed in one’s craft that one ignores ‘what the market wants’ is the responsibility of every creator.
2. Find your artistic voice
The length and breadth of art spans limitless genres, mediums, eras and styles. Thus, it’s crucial for every artist and art business to have an artistic voice that is unique and focused.
It could be a distinct style, or a particular medium or even a rare subject that immensely inspires you. Without an artistic voice, one could be lost at sea in an industry that is brimming with competitive talent.
3. Immerse yourself in the world of art
Through every stage of building your business, immerse yourself in the world of art. Understanding the landscape of any industry is crucial to businesses, but few are as pleasurable as viewing art. Take every opportunity to attend museums, architectural masterpieces, galleries- travel and collect a wealth of inspiration.
4. Harness the artist’s advantage with social media
In a world run by social media, art businesses stand at a natural advantage. With all businesses striving to create beautifully designed feeds filled with riotous colours, the nature of the art businesses effortlessly allows you to accomplish this.
Building a community of patrons can kick-start your dream in the art world. Ensure every aspect of your branding and social media is as stunning as your art.
5. Let your studio inspire you
Let your workspace serve as a source of inspiration. A creative flow is extensively influenced by your surroundings and can breathe life into your work. Make sure to fill your studio with natural light, greens, colours and everything that drives and motivates your creative process. In the words on Van Gogh, “If you hear a voice within you say ‘You cannot paint, then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.”
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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