IT WAS American public school system pioneer Horace Mann, who said in the 19th century that education is the great equalizer.
However, opportunities don’t usually come knocking for the minority to enjoy this right and consequently, privilege.
One cannot emphasize the importance of education enough, as a philosopher once said: “The foundation of every state is the education of its youth.”
Benjamin Franklin opines: “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Take it from one of the founding fathers of the United States of America, who valued his learning more than anything. A testament to this was his accomplishments as a profound polymath, inventor, scientist, printer, politician, Freemason, and diplomat.
But times have changed, and in a fast-paced and modern world, we tend to overlook the important things in life. The ones that are supposed to be a right and necessity have become luxury to some, just like having access to quality education.
These days, education is considered a luxury and not a right.
That’s why companies, believing in the power of education, have leveled the playing field for those armed only with potential and perseverance to pursue their dreams through education.
Through the years, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the Philippines has created a long-term, sustainable change to help provide and enrich the quality of education in the country.
From the public to the private sector, companies and agencies have been actively involved in the growth and development of education in the Philippines.
And to help prevent the looming serious problem of shortage of a skilled and smart workforce, companies have included education in their social responsibility programs.
Education is often seen as their ticket out of poverty.
However, for those living in poverty, access to education is easier said than done. With limited resources, many of them go to school on an empty stomach, and with incomplete school supplies. Some even skip going to school altogether on days when they have absolutely no money for their commute and meal.
The main purpose of CSR is to create a support system that comes full circle. To these agencies and companies, education is a right for everyone to appreciate and enjoy, and a powerful weapon to help change the world.