Fighting for Access to Education

Why do Global Citizen Corps leaders advocate for access to education?

 "With the global economy in its current state, spending federal money on aid programs seems to be low on the list of government priorities. But education is the one thing that we know will always be valuable. Armed with an education, a basic knowledge of the world, any child can begin to make intelligent decisions and lift them self out of even the most desperate situation, no matter what the economy is like.” –Liza

 "Education plays a large role in the fight against global poverty because it is the most important tool we have to break the seemingly never ending cycle of poverty. It is absurd that anyone, let alone approximately 72 million children, should go through life without an education and some of the most basic life skills. The benefits of an education are innumerable. It has been shown that a more educated population promotes social and political stability and uses natural resources more productively and sustainable. Just a single year of education has increased wages by 15% for boys and even more for girls. Universal primary education protects vulnerable children, reduces crime rates, improves social services, and fosters development.” –Pamela

 "Education is so important to eradicating poverty. Remember, “Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.” Buying food for the impoverished and malnourished can only go so far. Education lets those build themselves out of poverty. Basic microeconomic education can give third-world villagers a chance to use microfinance and small business to own their own financial future.” –Crystal

“Education is a fundamental human right, as included in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It provides the foundation for all other achievements in life. The lack of education entrenches people in a cycle of poverty and perpetuates other social problems such as hunger and AIDS. Education gives hope of a better life beyond poverty, disease, and war. Because education is also the cornerstone of social development and democratic governments, the US should take a strong leadership role in promoting basic education globally.” –Kathy