Geneva:Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, took part in a high-level event focused on girls' right to education. This event was organized by the Permanent Missions of the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom in Geneva, coinciding with the 63rd session of the Human Rights Council.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event celebrated the 12th anniversary of the Human Rights Council resolution on girls' right to education. It was co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of the Dominican Republic and The Gambia and centered around the theme 'Renewing Global Commitment to Leave No Girl Behind.'
Al Amiri delivered the opening remarks alongside Awa Dabo, Deputy United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and Kumar Iyer, the United Kingdom's Ambassador and Permanent Representative in Geneva. She emphasized the need for continued collective efforts to ensure that every girl has access to quality education, advocating for at least twelve years of safe, inclusive, and equitable education for every girl.
She further stated the UAE's commitment to contributing to the Human Rights Council's work as it seeks membership for the 2028-2030 term, viewing the candidacy as an opportunity to enhance its engagement in promoting and protecting human rights.
The event also included contributions from representatives of UNICEF, UN Women, and UNESCO's International Bureau of Education, addressing topics like education in emergencies, gender equality, and inclusive learning. Moderated by David Puyana, Ambassador and Permanent Observer of the University for Peace, the discussion featured insights from a young speaker from Malawi and Emirati inventor Mariam Al Ghafri.
Member States, United Nations representatives, and education experts gathered to reflect on the progress since the resolution's adoption in 2014 and the ongoing challenges affecting girls' education, such as conflict, humanitarian crises, gender inequality, and the digital divide. The importance of translating international commitments into actionable steps was highlighted, aiming to equip girls with the skills and opportunities vital for shaping their futures and contributing to their communities.