Every Pakistani girl dreams of a bright future. But that future is out of reach when they cannot complete 12 years of quality schooling. I am disheartened that the federal budget does not invest nearly enough in their future. I am worried about the six million Pakistani girls who are missing out on their secondary education.
The federal and provincial governments must reverse the trend of underfunding and commit to fund quality education for every girl in the country.
Girls keep waiting for leaders to match their words with action and their commitments with real investments. Pakistan’s future success — from economic growth to healthy and strong communities — relies on investing in girls’ education today. The time for waiting is over.
Building on the $15m we have invested in Pakistan over the past decade, @MalalaFund will continue fighting for girls’ rights and resources in partnership with local leaders and educators. As we double down on our commitment and work, I am proud to stand with Pakistan’s girls who, like me, understand the power of education.