Girls' Day coming on 11 Oct.

October 11^th will mark the second annual recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child. This year’s theme, “Innovating for Girls’ Education,” aims to draw attention to the basic right to education for all girls. There are still cultural or economic barriers around the world that keep girls of varied ages, colors, cultures and religions from learning.

Gender Concerns values the basic human right of girls to receive equal education. There has been much progress in making people realize the value of this right through the remarkable story of Malala and her continuing campaign for education – even after she survived a direct attack and lives under threats of further violence. Obviously safety is an essential element in girls receiving an education, but there needs to be wide progress on other requirements such as provision of teachers, classrooms, materials, technology and transportation.

Working together we can continue to spread the emphasis of girls’ education in more regions around the world. It’s too important in the development not only of their lives, but also in the positive development of societies as a whole.  Stay in touch with Gender Concerns for information on girls’ initiatives that can support improvements for everyone.

(photo by Benn Depp, American Red Cross)