CARE Celebrates the Global Campaign for Education Action Week

I am delighted that once again CARE will be observing the Global Campaign for Education Action Week, during the week of April 23. This year we focus on the theme of education as right. Today, over 77 million children worldwide, 57 percent of whom are girls, are denied the opportunity to a quality, basic education. This year, we will join together to remind our leaders that education is a human right. Learn more about how CARE staff around the world are participating in the campaign and get involved!

Education lies at the heart of our commitment to end global poverty. Universal education is fundamental to ensuring every human being has the right to make the most of their lives and their abilities. When children are deprived of an education, not only are they denied the chance to learn to read and write, earn a living and participate in democracy, they are also less likely to stand up for their rights. Education gives people, especially women and girls, the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to challenge power imbalances between men and women. By addressing the obstacles that keep children out school, such as child labor and discrimination, CARE's education programs are working to empower communities — so that we can effect lasting change.

During Action Week 2007, we call upon governments and the international community to fulfill their promises to provide free, compulsory public basic education for all people, in particular for children and women in disadvantaged communities. I am proud to add CARE's voice to the millions of teachers, parents and children who are demanding every child have the opportunity to learn and live their fullest life. Together we have the power to create a more just world.