Send My Friend to School statement on UK cuts to Official Development Assistance

The Send My Friend to School Coalition is profoundly disappointed in the Prime Minister’s announcement of significant cuts to Official Development Assistance, from 0.5% to 0.3% of GNI by 2027. This reduction of funding will have devastating effects on millions of marginalised children’s education and their futures.

At a time when investment in building better futures is urgently needed, the UK is turning its back. Investing in global education strengthens societies, promotes stability and is essential for peacebuilding. It plays a critical role in fueling economic growth, fostering equality and preparing children and young people for the future.

Education has already been decimated by the UK’s declining aid funding. This further reduction threatens to land a disproportionate blow on education, both through direct cuts and reductions in other critical public services necessary for children’s learning. The UK must stop borrowing from children’s futures to balance its books.

Send My Friend to School stands firm in its mission to ensure the UK plays its part in ensuring every child receives their right to education.

Emma Wagner and John McLaverty, co-Chairs of the Send My Friend to School coalition

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