Iceland invests in education for girls

Three Icelandic government ministries have made a joint donation of ISK 9 million (approx. €63,500) to UNICEF Afghanistan towards the education of girls.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Welfare and the Prime Minister’s Office have made the donation as part of a joint project financed by an Icelandic investment fund for equality issues.

“UNICEF’s goal in education in Afghanistan is to give all school-age boys and girls – particularly those living the most remote regions – access to basic education,” reads a UNICEF press release.

“The aim of the project supported by the Icelandic government is to make it easier for girls to go to school, by looking particularly at the obstacles put in their way, and to give them greater security and opportunity.”

“It is essential to work towards stamping out prejudice against educating women. There is still much resistance in Afghanistan and young women are attacked on the street just for going to school. Education is a successful way of reducing poverty, helping to bolster communities and even fighting inequality. Icelandic support in the fight for more education for girls and in removing the obstacles they face is of great importance.”

“We are very grateful for the Icelandic government’s support for this important project,” concludes Berg­steinn Jóns­son, Head of UNICEF Iceland. “Focusing on opportunities for girls to go to school and breaking down the barriers that keep them from education will have a multiplier effect.”

Photo: © UNICEF/AFGA2012-00087/Froutan © UNICEF/AFGA2012-00087/Froutan