International Day of the Girl: How YOU Can Make a Difference
October 13 is the International Day of the Girl, a day set aside by the United Nations in a declaration made on December 19, 2011 to "to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world". Statistics show that although illiteracy rates around the world are declining, two-thirds of the world's 123 million illiterate youth (15 - 24 years old) are female and that proportion is not changing. Girls around the world face serious obstacles to accessing the education they need to excel in life, from Taliban attacks to underage marriage. No nation can progress unless its women are treated as equals, and it is vital that girls be educated and fully use their intellect, dedication, and ideas to solve the problems of all humanity. The infographic below created for International Literacy Day 2013 illustrates the magnitude of the problem facing us with regards to education: literacy-infographic-2013-en Ahead of Nigeria's 2011 presidential elections, the BBC created an interactive map of the country which showed that in some states, literacy rates for women were as low as 5%. Although the reasons why girls' education is restricted are rooted in complex cultural and social realities, the impact that tackling this problem will have is clear for all to see: reductions in mortality, poverty reduction and equitable growth, social norm change and democratisation. With the inspiring example set by girl heroes such as Malala Yousafzai, Eniola Oladipo, and Uche Uzor, it is vital that we work to give all girls the chance to determine their own futures and succeed. The theme for this year's International Day of the Girl is Innovating for Girls’ Education, with a focus on "the importance of new technology, but also innovation in partnerships, policies, resource utilization, community mobilization, and most of all, the engagement of young people themselves." This is a cause close to the heart of ZODML's mission, and which the organisation pursues through online and tech-driven projects such as the Internet Learning Centre and our website's Learning Section. How can I get involved? Although many of the big problems regarding the education of girls is a task for governments, civil society organisations, and other such agencies, there are many ways that youas an individual can have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of girls around you: 1. Mentor a girl Is there a young woman at your church, in your neighbourhood, or in your extended family in need of advice and support? Why not reach out and support her dreams and aspirations? It need not be monetary: listening, providing advice, and connecting her tor relevant opportunities can have a lasting impact on her entire community. 2. Give a girl a book The benefits of reading bookscannot be overestimated. As a birthday or Christmas present, consider giving the girls in your life a book or two, whether a novel, poetry collection, or biography. 3. Raise awareness With social media bringing events from around the country and the world into our hands in seconds, it's easier than ever to spotlight issues like the education of girls. Stay up-to-date on topics such as the #ChildNotBride debate, talk with friends, and attend meetings and rallies which keep girls' education in the spotlight. 4. Be an advocate As a citizen of a democracy, your voice counts. Write to your state or federal representative asking them to support legislation that protects the rights of girls and vote for candidates whose track records show concern for education issues. 5. Support organisations which advocate for girls' education and schools Whether by donating supplies, money, or your time, even the smallest amount given to a school, NGO, or similar organisation will go far in changing the lives of girls for the better. [Tweet ""Educate a girl, educate a nation" #dayofthegirl via @ZODML"]
