Investing in girls’ education ‘game changer’

British Prime Minister's Special Envoy on Girls' Education Helen Grant has emphasised investing in girls' education, which she thinks is an "absolute game changer" and ensures a safer, fairer and better world for girls.

She said that their education is a key priority for the UK government.

Grant, who was appointed to the post in January 2021, made the remarks yesterday, before wrapping up her visit to Bangladesh.

While talking to a small group of reporters at the residence of British High Commissioner Robert Chatterton Dickson, Helen listed poverty, climate change, gender-based violence, early pregnancy and forced marriage as some of the barriers that need to be addressed through joint efforts.

As girls remain at greater risk of violence, sexual abuse, and child marriage due to being out of school, she said investing in girls is very important.

The UK government has recently contributed USD 34.7 million to Unicef through the British High Commission in Dhaka to provide access to quality education for the most disadvantaged and out-of-school children in Bangladesh.

"Bangladesh has made significant progress towards ensuring education for every child. But persistent and complex challenges remain when it comes to equitable access and the quality of education," said Sheldon Yett, Unicef representative to Bangladesh.