“Education is a human right, a public good and a public responsibility.” - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
The United Nations General Assembly designated January 24 as International Day of Education to celebrate the role of education in peace and development. Globally, 250 million children and youth are currently unable to enroll in school, and a staggering 763 million adults are grappling with illiteracy. According to the 2022 PSA study, 1 out of 5 students was not enrolled in SY 2022-2023. This heartbreaking statistic translates to 18.6 percent or 7.85 million Filipinos aged 5 to 24 who missed out on the chance to attend school.
Urban Farmer Manila has been fervently championing children's education through a partnership with the Assumption Alumnae Association (AAA) since 2021. Our inaugural initiative unfolded in November 2021 when we pledged 100% of the proceeds from the Red Glitter Poinsettia to support the education of students in Assumption Mission Schools nationwide. The outpouring of orders and support during this project truly overwhelmed our team.
Our commitment deepened with our second project in November 2022, featuring the "Give Back Box" – a thoughtful ensemble comprising a baby Zebra succulent and a medium-sized Moon Cactus in a locally handcrafted red planter box. With each box sold, a dedicated portion of the proceeds was directed towards supporting Assumption Mission Schools.
We're thrilled to announce that from both projects’ sales, the collective donation amounted to Php 752,555. This significant contribution has touched the lives of students in seven schools across different corners of our nation. These schools include St. Martin’s School (Baguio City), Assumpta Technical High School (San Simon, Pampanga), San Juan Nepomuceno School (Malibay, Pasay City), Assumption Socio-Educational Center (Barrio Obrero, Iloilo), Assumption School (Passi City, Iloilo), Sta. Rita Academy (Sibalom, Antique), and Xavier de Kibangay High School (Bukidnon). It would not have been possible without the overflowing support of our cherished customers, whose generosity has been the driving force behind our mission to nurture and empower young minds.
Today, our dedication to fostering education remains unwavering, and our alliance with the Assumption Alumnae Association has grown stronger. With each Pay-It-Forward plant box you buy, know that a percentage of the proceeds is a lifeline directly supporting our valued beneficiaries.
In a world where rights have become privileges, let us roll up our sleeves and lend a helping hand. Education is not just for those who can, but for everyone.
References:
Mapa, C. (2023, September 25). Annual Poverty Indicator Survey | Philippine Statistics Authority | Republic of the Philippines. Psa.gov.ph. https://psa.gov.ph/statistics/income-expenditure/apis
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2022). International Day of Education. Unesco.org. https://www.unesco.org/en/days/education