The number of out-of-school children worldwide has risen to 273 million, according to UNESCO. This figure highlights a growing global education crisis that demands urgent attention. According to the 2026 Global Education Monitoring Report, the number has increased for seven consecutive years. Consequently, millions of children and young people remain excluded from formal education systems.
The report reveals that one in six school-age children currently lacks access to education. In addition, only two-thirds of students successfully complete their secondary school education. Since 2015, progress has slowed across many regions worldwide. Notably, conflict and rapid population growth continue to drive educational exclusion. As a result, developing regions face even greater challenges in expanding access.
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the most affected region, with persistent barriers limiting school attendance. Furthermore, children living in conflict zones face even harsher realities and limited opportunities. In many cases, the number of out-of-school children in these areas exceeds official estimates. Therefore, accurate data collection remains crucial for effective intervention and planning.
Despite these setbacks, the report highlights encouraging progress over the past two decades. For instance, global school enrolment has significantly improved since the year 2000. In fact, more than 25 additional children have gained access to education every minute. Moreover, several countries have successfully reduced exclusion rates through targeted education reforms.
However, experts emphasize that no single policy can solve this global issue. Instead, governments must adopt tailored strategies and increase long-term investment in education. Ultimately, sustained efforts will ensure every child has equal access to quality education worldwide.
