According to a new study from Oxfam, the rich are getting richer, writes Cassie Weber of Quartz. The report indicates that eighty rich people are now controlling an equivalent of everything owned by the poorest 50% of the rest of the world combined. That is indeed an astonishing figure. Those who have managed through various circumstances and efforts to amass such amount of wealth cannot be blamed. The question is: what should be done about this phenomenon?
1. Education
Between 2010 and 2014 alone, the net worth of the top 1% increased by $600 billion to $1.9 trillion. Those who make more money know something all other people don’t: education. Education is a critical element that will help the poor to begin catching up. When I say education, I don’t just mean a formal classroom instruction, though that is very essential. In this 21st century, everyone can learn, improve, acquire new skills from virtually anywhere. Instead of spending their money on luxury goods like TV, flashy cars and others, the poor should invest in themselves and their children.
2. Entrepreneurship
While most wealthy people understand the value of taking calculated risks, the poor are content with receiving just a paycheck. There is nothing wrong with being paid for working in any organization, but understanding the value of ownership, entrepreneurship and risk-taking can turn around the circle of poverty in communities.
3. Equal Opportunity
Another area to consider is in regards to creating a level playing field. Equal opportunity should be given to all who aspire to do great things. Sometimes there are artificial barriers that prevent the most talented, educated and entrepreneurial amongst us from breakthrough the circle of poverty. The Oxfam report suggest measures that reflect changes to the way global society is organized including the eradication of extreme poverty and economic empowerment of women.

Look, the truth is that, there will always be poor people and rich people, end of story. But if we are serious about reducing poverty and leveling the playing field for all to succeed, the “have-nots” should take aggressive steps to educate themselves economically, socially, politically and in virtually all the spheres of life. They should delve into the entrepreneurial fields and take reasonable risks, turning their passions into profitable ventures. On their part, those who wield the powers that be should endeavor to level the playing fields for anyone who is willing to work hard. We will all be better off for that. We all have 24hrs in a day: let’s make the most out of it.