UN knows education is key
Posted on Mar 3, 2011 by JRF
UN Commission on the Status of Women, New York, February 22- March 4 2011
The United Nations is winding up its 55th annual session, which this year focused on the status of women. The Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro said, “Investing in women and girls is a force multiplier.” What she means, is that increasing access to education for women, even primary education in many parts of the globe, will empower women, help fight poverty and stop human trafficking. The priority theme of the Commission’s session this year is “Access and participation of women and girls in education, training and, science and technology.”
The commission recognizes the achievements of the past 55 years by noting the improvements in enrollment and retention rates of girls. Now, they are committed to closing the gap between the quality of education girls and boys receive, and participation in the workforce, especially in science and technology fields. The UN Economic and Social Council president Lazarous Kapambwe “pointed out that women’s participation in the labor force in 2008 was estimated at 52.6%, compared to 77.5% for men.” The commission is working towards better training, leadership and entrepreneurial opportunities for women.
Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund is a part of this movement to empower women. We are dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty by increasing access to education for low-income women across the United States. JRF scholars are showing their friends, families and communities the importance of higher education.
To read more about the UN commission on the Status of Women click here
Tagged: un commission, lowincome, women, jrf scholars
