Education is an undisputed and fundamental right for every human being.
However, this is not the reality in most societies, where discrimination and gender imbalances play a decisive role in power structures.
Some cultures still prioritize the education of girls, who are generally seen as housewives and childbearers.
Some girls are limited to a basic education that does not adequately equip them to realize their immense intrinsic and innate potential.
According to Joaquim Chissano (Former President of Mozambique), “Women and girls are Africa’s greatest untapped resource, and it is they, not diamonds or oil and minerals, who will form the basis of solid, sustainable, and equitable progress. Health and development experts, economists, non-governmental organizations, United Nations agencies, and even banks agree that expanding freedoms, education, and opportunities for women is the key to kick-starting inclusive economic growth. This is true worldwide, and particularly true for Africa.”
The benefits of girls’ education are numerous. The advantages and benefits are manifold. Education brings the benefits of independence and autonomy, social benefits, health benefits, economic benefits, and cultural, political, intercultural, and global advantages. These points have different implications depending on the contexts in which girls’ educational needs are addressed and prioritized.
The benefits of independence and autonomy include self-realization and self-improvement, the development of personal values, self-confidence and self-esteem, and a fulfilling and happy life.
Social benefits include a reduction in early marriages, fewer clandestine pregnancies and abortions among teenage girls, the denunciation of harmful traditional practices, a better understanding of social interaction, gender balance and equality, and greater awareness and advocacy for the rights of girls and women.
Economically, it leads to strengthened economic growth, increased prosperity, the creation of businesses and successful female entrepreneurs, poverty reduction for sustainable growth, and ultimately, the empowerment of the community and the nation.
From a political standpoint, they can become better leaders, playing a major role in shaping policies and decisions for nation-building, because no one can represent their voices better than they can.
In terms of cultural advantages, they are best positioned to reshape male thinking and are true conduits for values shared with other cultures.
For Barack Obama, “the future should not belong to those who brutalize women. It should be shaped by girls who go to school and by those who advocate for a world where our daughters can live their dreams just as our sons can.”
The 2012 United Nations General Assembly declared that “the world’s human population is predominantly female. This means that it cannot survive without girls and women. It is therefore very important to educate and nurture them, because once they are educated, the whole world benefits in every aspect of life.”
Let us be proud to be girls and women! They are the foundation of life.