In an increasingly challenging global landscape, educational initiatives by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continue to pave new paths for individuals worldwide. BYU–Pathway Worldwide stands out as a transformative program that offers accessible online education, creating economic opportunities for people in over 180 countries.
Despite recent global political events that have led to reduced funding for humanitarian efforts, the Church has remained committed, announcing an increase in humanitarian aid to $1.45 billion for 2024.
Viva Bartkus, a business professor at Notre Dame, highlighted the significance of this educational framework during the 2025 International Society Conference. She remarked, “BYU–Pathway Worldwide, this investment of your Church to bring quality online education at a low cost to the world, to me is extraordinary.”
Bartkus anticipates that BYU–Pathway could emerge as the Church’s most valuable contribution to the global community. The program has already seen more than 55,000 certificates and degrees awarded, with a projection of a 40% increase in student enrollment for the current year.
In her address, Bartkus emphasized the importance of empowering individuals in impoverished countries through education rather than merely providing material aid. She stated, “What we should be doing is creating conditions for them to improve their lives through education and economic opportunities, but they have to do the hard work themselves.”
Brian Ashton, President of BYU–Pathway, described the challenges faced by many students who struggle to find employment in underdeveloped areas. He noted that 60% of students come from regions where labor markets are weak or nonexistent. Consequently, the program focuses on helping students secure remote jobs, enabling them to earn income and positively impact their communities.
Ashton emphasized the program’s dual role by stating, “What is extraordinary about BYU–Pathway is that you provide the opportunity for education and then BYU–Pathway Worldwide helps with the initial jobs, helps with the initial employment so that people can get on their feet.”
James Findlay, who was involved in the curriculum department for BYU–Pathway Connect, shared how the program supports students’ advancement. “Our goal is to get them to advance and to move forward, so they bring their best to the altar,” Findlay said. He highlighted the divine guidance many individuals have felt in their pursuit of better education through the program.
The core mission of BYU–Pathway Worldwide, as stated on their website, is to develop disciples of Jesus Christ who become leaders in their homes, the Church, and their communities. Findlay pointed out the unique nature of this program, saying, “The difference is that the Savior is in charge of His Church. He knows what He’s doing. He knows exactly what His children need, where they live, when they need it and the way that they need it.”
In addition to BYU–Pathway, the Church offers the Cardon International Sponsorship, which facilitates graduate education for members living outside the U.S. and Canada. Moises Ortiz, a recipient of this sponsorship, recounted his journey after following President Hinckley’s call to pursue higher education.
Ortiz moved with his wife from Hidalgo, Mexico, to Provo, Utah, to learn English and begin a master’s program at BYU. He expressed gratitude for the scholarship, stating, “I think it would be super hard for me to have had a BYU experience without it.”
Two decades later, Ortiz proudly watches his children attend BYU, encouraging them and others to seek the educational resources and financial support available through the Church. He believes education not only provides better job prospects but also enhances opportunities for community service.
After completing his master’s, Ortiz returned to Mexico and served as a stake president. He commented, “I think that the more educated the members of the Church are, the happier families they’ll have. They’ll be able to serve as well and give back to the Church which will end up blessing other people.”
BYU–Pathway Worldwide is transforming lives through education, creating pathways for economic development, and empowering individuals worldwide. The Church remains steadfast in its mission, providing valuable educational opportunities that change lives and strengthen communities.
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