“BUSINESSES PLAY A KEY ROLE IN FULFILLING SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY” – AHLSTRÖM COLLECTIVE IMPACT CONTINUES ITS SUPPORT FOR UNICEF’S EDUCATIONAL WORK
Ahlström Collective Impact will continue to support UNICEF’s global educational program in 2024, reinforcing its commitment to children’s education worldwide. A key element of this collaboration is the training organized by UNICEF Finland for members of the Ahlström Collective Impact network, emphasizing the importance of children’s rights in business operations and corporate responsibility.
The support provided by Ahlström Collective Impact for UNICEF’s educational program this year amounts to close to 800 000 euros.
“I see that the corporate sector plays a crucial role in social responsibility, and this role will become increasingly important in the future. UNICEF Finland’s recent report on the child rights performance of Finnish companies, viewed through a ‘child lens,’ is a significant step forward in this effort.
Our vision is to create a better world for future generations, and as the world’s most influential children’s organization, UNICEF has the potential to effect long-lasting changes in the lives of children and young people.” – Nelli Paasikivi-Ahlström, Chair of the Ahlström Collective Impact
“We are grateful to Ahlström Collective Impact for its long-term commitment to partnering with us and supporting our educational work. Education is every child’s right. It is also a key part of building a sustainable and stable future and strengthening the resilience of societies,” says Johanna Talvela, Director, Corporate Collaboration, UNICEF Finland.
Partnership in Action
The collaboration extends beyond financial support. Earlier this year, companies within the Ahlström Collective Impact network participated in a study by UNICEF Finland on the implementation of children’s rights in Finnish-listed companies. Based on the study’s findings, these companies have started to further develop their responsibility work.
Addressing the Digital Divide
In a rapidly changing world, the digital divide remains a significant barrier for many children and young people. Nearly three-quarters of 15-24 year-olds in the lowest-income countries lack the necessary skills for the workforce, and about two-thirds of school-aged children worldwide do not have internet access at home.
UNICEF’s educational efforts aim to bridge this divide by bringing digital learning to millions of children and young people. This includes training teachers in digital pedagogy and extending these solutions to refugee centers, homes, and schools, even in emergency situations. Thanks to UNICEF’s work, nearly 38 million children gained access to education in 2022, and 14 million children and young people developed skills through digital channels.
“Education reduces inequality. Our task is to ensure that learning is within reach of every child,” says Johanna Talvela, Director, Corporate Collaboration, UNICEF Finland
A Broader Mission
UNICEF, the world’s largest advocate for children’s education, promotes education in 150 countries. Its efforts include providing education in crisis situations, changing attitudes that hinder schooling, promoting quality teaching, and defending the right to education for children with disabilities and minorities. The organization works on both grassroots efforts and the development of entire education systems in collaboration with government authorities.
About Ahlström Collective Impact
The Ahlström Collective Impact collaboration model began in 2020, uniting companies and foundations in the Ahlström network to invest in children’s well-being through selected UNICEF projects aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals. Members include A. Ahlström, Ahlström Invest, Ahlstrom, Avain Yhtiöt, Destia, Detection Technology, Eva Ahlström Foundation, Glaston, M&J Recycling, Suominen, and Walter Ahlström Foundation.