Global inspiration for local education advocates
7/18/2013
"One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world." - Malala Yousafzai
We're talking a lot about education locally, but a recent international conversation about education really hits home for us. The world is talking about 16-year-old Malala Yousafzai, who was shot standing up for her educational rights by the Pakistani Taliban. On July 12 - her 16th birthday, now Malala Day - she addressed the United Nations Youth Assembly and called for improvements in global education. She thanked change agents such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Theresa for being her inspiration and proclaimed education as theonly solution to world change. Among her many wise words, Malala told world leaders that they should introduce "free, compulsory education" for all children across the globe, according to NBC news.
Hearing such powerful words coming from a young person reminds me of how strong the young people featured in the ONE in THREE exhibit were during the ONE by ONE campaign. The bravery they had in telling their stories to thousands of people is nothing short of amazing. Their words, along with Malala's, should be a reminder of how important it is to rally around education both locally and globally. It is our responsibility as members of this society to stand up and make education a priority for ALL. If Malala can fight for the chance to an education without death, then we have the responsibility to take our education seriously.
As Malala said, "It's not only each child's right to get an education, rather it's their duty and responsibility. "And it's our duty to help ensure all our children are receiving the highest quality of education.
-- Allishia Edmonds
Watch Malala's speech here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtprX8i2k-Q