“Education is the key to success,” says Urub, a grade 5 student who attends school in the east-end of Toronto. Having grown up in Canada, where every child has the right to attend school, Urub understands the true importance of education.
And yet, approximately 65 million girls, around the world, currently do not attend school.
Though there are a variety of reasons girls are missing from classrooms, the facts proving thebenefits of girls’ education speak for themselves.
“Education made me confident,” explained Urub, adding that it, along with Plan’sBecause I am a Girl initiative, encouraged her to “inspire others by making them believe they can help, even if they’re just kids.”
Through Plan’s Because I am a Girlinitiative, girls all over the world are gaining access to an education, which opens doors to new opportunities.After hearing the story of Malala, who sparked international awareness after taking a stand against the denial of girls’ education, Urub was inspired.
“I always say to myself ‘how would I feel if I wasn’t educated?’” she reflected, “I thought if I made a speech out of it I could make a difference and convince more people to help out and that education is important.”
Like Malala, Urub took action regarding the global issue of girls’ education. She started with her school’s speech competition.
“Malala helped by making people believe that education is the key to success,” explains Urub. “That’s why we should help Malala spread the word.”
Urub’s teacher, Ms. Hardill, saw first-hand how Urub’s powerful message both informed and deeply resonated with other students.
“I think it’s important for them to understand the potential of ‘you can be anything you want to be when you grow up,’” she said, as well as knowing that “in some countries they don’t have those opportunities.”
Someday, Urub hopes to be a politician so that she can ensure education is accessible for all.
The power of knowledge, the power of girls
With the support of Canadian donors, Plan is working to bring education to girls everywhere. Plan’s education projects have already helped thousands of girls secure scholarships and the resources they need to excel in their studies, and in life.
Unfortunately though, many are still silenced by a lack of education. According to UNESCO, 64% of the 775 million adults worldwide who lack basic reading and writing skills are women.
Both Malala and Urub raised their voices in support of girls’ education. Now you can help ensure the right to learn isn’t out of reach for any child – regardless of country, regardless of gender.
