In a surprising move, the current administration appears to be putting the “Let Girls Learn” initiative at risk, a program launched in 2015 by former First Lady Michelle Obama. This initiative aimed to expand educational opportunities for girls in developing nations, addressing the numerous obstacles they face in pursuing education. According to the program, girls around the globe encounter various physical, cultural, and financial challenges that hinder their access to schooling. As they grow older, these challenges often intensify, leading to a lack of necessary support for their education. The program emphasized that educating girls can lead to transformative changes in their lives, families, and communities, fostering healthier and more productive societies.
Despite the White House’s acknowledgment that some aspects of the program may persist, staff members were instructed to cease using the “Let Girls Learn” name, with the program officially slated for termination, as reported by CNN. In light of this decision, the educational landscape for girls remains a crucial concern. According to UNICEF, in 2013, approximately 31 million primary school-aged girls and 32 million girls of lower secondary school age were out of school. Providing education to girls is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty; educated women are more likely to delay marriage, have healthier children, and ensure their offspring receive an education.
Shelly Thompson, the interim director of the Peace Corps overseeing this initiative, expressed gratitude in an email to her team, stating how “Let Girls Learn” showcased the organization’s strengths in community development. However, following public outcry regarding the program’s discontinuation, the White House issued a statement claiming that no changes had been made, yet they refrained from clarifying whether “Let Girls Learn” would be reinstated in the future.
A spokesperson for the Peace Corps reassured that their commitment to girls’ education and empowerment remains steadfast, indicating that they look forward to collaborating with interagency partners on this important issue. The potential impact of empowering girls through education is immeasurable and could lead to significant advancements on a global scale. Imagine what the world could achieve if women everywhere were granted the educational opportunities they deserve.
For more insights on related topics, check out this blog post for further reading. If you’re interested in the latest in home insemination, Make a Mom provides an authoritative guide. Additionally, News Medical is an excellent resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
The Trump administration’s memo suggests the discontinuation of the “Let Girls Learn” initiative, originally established by Michelle Obama to promote girls’ education worldwide. Despite public backlash, the administration claims that no changes have been made. The Peace Corps remains dedicated to empowering girls through education, highlighting the significant societal benefits of educating women.