SDG 1: No Poverty

SDG 1: No Poverty - East Bridge University (EBU)

East Bridge University recognizes that ending poverty requires comprehensive action across multiple dimensions of sustainable development. Our commitment extends beyond traditional education to encompass financial accessibility, community empowerment, and economic development initiatives. Through our research, teaching, and community engagement, we work to break down barriers that prevent individuals from accessing quality education and economic opportunities, both locally and globally.

In the Spotlight: Financial Inclusion and Student Success Initiative

Our comprehensive Financial Inclusion and Student Success Initiative represents EBU’s flagship approach to addressing poverty through education. This multi-faceted program specifically targets students from the bottom 20% of household income groups, providing not just financial support but a complete ecosystem of services designed to ensure academic success and long-term economic mobility. The initiative integrates academic support, career development, and community engagement to create sustainable pathways out of poverty for our students and their communities.

At a Glance: From Our Research to Our Operations

Bottom Financial Quintile Admission Targets: We maintain dedicated admission pathways for students from the bottom 20% of household income groups, with 312 students currently enrolled (20% of our 1,557 total enrollment). Our targeted outreach programs work directly with low-income communities to identify and support potential students through the application process.

Comprehensive Low-Income Student Support: Our wraparound support system serves 467 students (30% of enrollment) with services including financial aid averaging $2,975 per student, technology access programs, academic tutoring, mental health support, and career development services. This holistic approach has achieved a 96% retention rate among supported students.

International Development Focus: We provide specialized support for 187 students from 40 low and lower-middle income countries, offering flexible payment plans, technology grants, and cultural adaptation programs. Our $234,000 annual investment in this program has resulted in a 93% completion rate, with 71% of graduates returning to their home countries to contribute to local development.

Local Start-up Assistance Programs: Through our Paris, UK, India, Dubai and Bangkok center and community partnerships, we provide entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and resource access to local community members. Our programs have supported the launch of 89 small businesses, creating 267 direct jobs and generating significant economic impact in underserved communities.

Community Services Access Training: We organize free training programs that improve access to basic services for community members, reaching 890 beneficiaries annually through workshops on digital literacy, financial planning, healthcare navigation, and legal rights awareness. These programs are delivered by our graduate volunteers and community partners.

Student Success Tracking: Among our 55 graduates to date, those from the bottom financial quintile demonstrate exceptional outcomes, with 96% completion rates and average income increases of 280% within two years of graduation. We maintain ongoing support relationships to ensure sustained economic mobility.

Policy Engagement and Advocacy: EBU actively participates in policy discussions at local, regional, and international levels, contributing research and expertise to poverty reduction initiatives. Our faculty and students engage with organizations including UNESCO, local government agencies, and international development organizations to inform evidence-based policy making.

Innovation in Poverty Alleviation: Our research initiatives focus on technology-enabled solutions for poverty reduction, including mobile learning platforms for underserved communities, digital financial inclusion tools, and AI-powered career matching systems that connect low-income individuals with economic opportunities.

Partnership Network: We collaborate with 58 organizations including NGOs, government agencies, and international development organizations to amplify our impact. These partnerships enable us to leverage resources, share best practices, and create sustainable community-based solutions to poverty.

Measurable Community Impact: Our comprehensive poverty alleviation efforts reach over 2,100 direct beneficiaries annually, with programs designed for sustainability and community ownership. We track long-term outcomes including employment rates, income growth, and community development indicators to ensure lasting impact.