Why Girls?

Access to education is a fundamental right that should be available to everyone regardless of gender, ethnicity, or social background. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, and girls are often the ones who are left behind when it comes to education. According to UNESCO, there are approximately 130 million girls worldwide who are not in school, and the majority of them are in developing countries. There are several reasons why girls do not receive an education compared to boys but the most significant examples are poverty, cultural and social norms, and gender-based violence.

One of the most significant factors is poverty. Families living in poverty often cannot afford to send their children to school, and they may prioritize boys over girls when it comes to education. This is because boys are seen as the breadwinners of the family, and it is believed that investing in their education will lead to greater economic opportunities in the future. In contrast, girls are often seen as a burden, and their education is not considered a priority.

Cultural and social norms also play a significant role in preventing girls from receiving an education. In many societies, girls are expected to stay at home, take care of the household, and get married at a young age. Education is often seen as unnecessary or even harmful to a girl's future prospects as a wife and mother. Furthermore, in some cultures, the education of girls is seen as a threat to traditional gender roles and may lead to social and cultural tensions.

Another major factor is gender-based violence, including sexual harassment and assault, which can create a hostile environment for girls in schools. Girls who experience violence may drop out of school due to fear or shame, or their families may withdraw them from school to protect them from further harm.

In conclusion, the lack of education for girls is a complex issue that is influenced by economic, social, and cultural factors. It is crucial to address the root causes of gender inequality and to promote girls' education as a human right. By investing in girls' education, we can create a more just and equitable world for all.

Sources:

-UNESCO Institute for Statistics. (2021). Out-of-School Children and Youth.

-UNESCO. (2018). Fact Sheet: Girls’ Education and Gender Equality.

-United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative. (2021). Why Girls’ Education.