Factors influencing public safety, societal development and sustainability due to shortcomings in the educational system.

Abstract

The interdisciplinary study was conducted with an aim of identifying and eliminating gaps in public education of children at the levels of health, education and participation in national/local policy planning. Multidisciplinary Questionnaire was completed by 1209 students of the University of Latvia. Before conducting the survey, students were introduced to the states responsibility to ensure the health, life and development of every child, as described in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). 95.4% of students expressed their will to have been taught more useful life skills and knowledge at school, preparing them better for different challenges. 85.5% considered that teaching more about the history of the country and the region is necessary to be able to make the right choice when making important decisions. Differences between democratic and totalitarian regimes in observing human rights principles have been taught at school for 63%, only 46.3% were well informed about Russia's military aggressions against sovereign states violating international law. 87% still lack systemic health education at schools, 41% do not feel ready for the provision of first aid. Only 16% admit that respect for children's opinions is at least partially ensured in decision-making at various levels. Educational deficiencies of broad spectrum from knowledge of modifiable disease risk factors, first aid skills in critical situations, to the lack of historical knowledge that prevents strategic analysis of credible threats to the country's sustainability and national security, and maintenance of democratic principles of societal development. Urgent improvements of public education covering these gaps of knowledge are necessary.