COWF-Abwaab
Remote Education Program

Statement submitted by Children of War Foundation, a non-governmental organization in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council*

Through COWF field coordination and dissemination of information via social networks and online platforms, the organization has been and is solving for access and rights to education for girls who fall out of school due to displacement, cultural barriers, discrimination, transitional periods, and many other reasons. Many fall out when entering secondary education. This transition is particularly a critical challenge to address sooner than later, as adolescent girls who are out of school are more likely not to return, marry early, and or end up working low skilled and low paying (if any) jobs. Data shows that girls face even more gender discrimination not being educated, and in response to numerous barriers, including cultural and social. It is evident that girls who can lift themselves through the power of education, can make informed decisions, decide what cultural norms they choose to adopt, can lift their families and communities out of poverty, as well as adapt and overcome adversity when endured. Evidence also shows that secondary education empowers girls with the knowledge to work through adolescent challenges, communication, life skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, and thus enabling resiliency to further understand human rights, undo poverty and respond to adversity to protect themselves and educate families.