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 | | Girl in a CARE-funded school, Afghanistan (©2004 Jack Hill/CARE) |
CARE promotes the right to education and helps people master the skills of reading, writing, basic arithmetic and critical thinking. CARE also works to increase political participation and promote equitable decision-making power.
Research has confirmed CARE's experience on the ground: Educating girls and women is fundamental to overcoming poverty. One extra year of schooling beyond the average boosts girls' eventual wages by 10-20 percent. And educating girls for five years could increase child survival by up to 40 percent in Africa. Beyond the numbers are the millions of little girls who have a right to learn, and deserve the chance to reach their full potential become active participants in their community.
Case in Point: Wida
Wida started her education at age 8, when CARE helped her small community in Afghanistan open a school. Although Wida was small for her age, her mother pleaded with the teacher to let the little girl attend, saying that she had waited for this opportunity for years. Wida says her first day of school was the realization of the family's dream, and she takes her education very seriously. "I work hard to become a doctor. I come to school early, listen to my teacher with big attention, learn my lessons and do my homework. I keep my books, notebooks, pens, and other things with great care," Wida says proudly.
CARE's Work
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