International Day of Peace Statement by Education Cannot Wait Executive Director Yasmine Sherif
The world has been facing unprecedented challenges in recent times, with conflicts, natural disasters, and now a global pandemic wreaking havoc on the lives of millions of people. In such difficult times, the importance of peace cannot be overstated. It is only through peace that we can build a better world for ourselves and future generations. That is why the International Day of Peace, observed on 21st September every year, holds great significance. This year, the theme for the International Day of Peace is “Shaping Peace Together”, emphasizing the need for global solidarity and cooperation in promoting peace.
On this occasion, Yasmine Sherif, the Executive Director of Education Cannot Wait, has released a statement highlighting the importance of peace in achieving quality education for all. She stated that “peace and education are two sides of the same coin” and that without peace, education cannot thrive. As we celebrate the International Day of Peace, we must remember that peace is not just the absence of war, but it also includes social, economic, and political stability.
Education Cannot Wait is a global fund dedicated to providing education to children and youth affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and other crises. Their work is more crucial now than ever before, as the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the education of millions of children worldwide. In her statement, Yasmine Sherif emphasized that the pandemic has further exposed the inequalities in education, especially for those living in fragile and conflict-affected countries. She urged the international community to come together and prioritize education in their peacebuilding efforts.
Education is not just a fundamental human right but also a key driver of peace and sustainable development. When children and youth have access to quality education, they are less likely to be recruited into armed groups or engage in violent activities. Education also promotes critical thinking, tolerance, and respect for diversity, essential values for building peaceful societies. However, in conflict-affected countries, education is often the first casualty, with schools being attacked, destroyed, or occupied by armed groups.
Yasmine Sherif also highlighted the impact of the pandemic on the education of girls and young women. With schools closed, girls are at a higher risk of early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and other forms of violence. This not only deprives them of their right to education but also hinders their potential to contribute to society and achieve their full potential. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that girls and young women have access to safe and quality education, which is also key to achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment.
In her statement, Yasmine Sherif called for increased funding for education in emergencies, stating that “the cost of inaction is far greater than the cost of investing in education.” Education Cannot Wait aims to mobilize $1.8 billion by 2021 to reach 9 million children and youth in need of education in emergencies. However, with the current funding gap, it is challenging to achieve this goal. The international community must step up and fulfill their commitments to education in emergencies.
Yasmine Sherif also emphasized the importance of investing in education as a long-term solution to building peaceful societies. She stated that education is not just a response to crises but also a preventive measure. By providing education to children and youth affected by conflicts and crises, we are investing in a peaceful and prosperous future. It is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, violence, and instability.
As we celebrate the International Day of Peace, let us remember that peace is not a one-day event but a continuous effort. It requires the participation and commitment of all stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, civil society, and individuals. Education Cannot Wait is playing a crucial role in promoting peace through education, but it cannot do it alone. We must all come together and work towards a world where every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to build a better future.
In conclusion, Yasmine Sherif’s statement on the International Day of Peace reminds us of the critical role education plays in promoting peace and building a better world. As we face multiple crises, we must prioritize education and ensure that no child is left behind. Let us all join hands and shape peace together through education.
