Child marriage. Gender-based violence. Child labor.
These are just some of the barriers that millions of girls around the world face each day when trying to access a basic education. And, Friend, these threats are heightened during times of crisis, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the pandemic disrupted education for 1.6 billion students, it goes much deeper for girls. As schools are reopening, see how we’re ensuring every girl’s right to learn >> |
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Here’s the frightening truth: COVID-19 school closures could drive 20 million more secondary school-aged girls out of school even after the crisis has passed.
Secondary education is crucial for girls, Friend. It has a positive impact on cognitive skills. It can lead to further education, increased wages and reduced poverty. It can protect them from child marriage and sexual exploitation.
UNICEF is working with local governments to help recover education and promote gender-responsive learning — like our STEM lessons in Ghana and the catch-up programs for adolescent mothers in South Sudan. We’re committed to creating and enhancing programs that not only bring girls back to school, but also help first-time students enroll and stay in school.
Learn more about the questions we’re asking — and answering — to keep girls in the classroom.
Anucha Browne
Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer
UNICEF USA |
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