July 23, 2013

Washington, D.C.-Today, the Global Campaign for Education-US applauds the Congressional leadership of Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY) and Congressman David Reichert (R-WA) for the stand they have taken for the 57 million children of primary school age around the world who are out of school.

The Education for All Act, H.R. 2780, introduced today, recognizes education as a fundamental development and security priority and calls for the development of a comprehensive strategy to meet the goal of education for all.

“With winning hearts and minds more important than ever, promoting primary education is one of the smartest investments we can make in our national security.  Basic education is a powerful force against extremism.  In addition, countries with higher rates of educated youth are more stable, prosperous and democratic, and are more likely to work with, and not against, the United States,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “Helping expand children’s access to education around the world strengthens our national security and global leadership.”

“It is always inspiring to know that there are champions like Representatives Lowey and Reichert who understand the value of education in the lives of all children,” said GCE-US Director, Dr. Edwin Gragert. “Education has proven time and time again that it directly impacts all development sectors-health, economics, environment, gender equity-and that it is the key to sustainable development around the world.

Studies have shown that each additional year of education following the fourth grade can increase a person’s future wages by 10-20 percent and children of an educated mother are 50 percent more likely to survive the age of five. Currently, there are 57 million children out of school according to UNESCO, and just over 20 million of those children are out of school in countries affected by conflict. This number of out of school children is down from nearly 60 million in 2010 and over 100 million children in 2000. It is estimated that approximately seven million teachers will be needed to fulfill universal primary education.

For further information regarding universal quality education and the impact of access to education around the world, feel free to contact the Global Campaign for Education-US Chapter at 202.627.4245.