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How Has Girls’ Education in South Asia Improved?

Girls’ education in South Asia has improved greatly over the centuries. Long-held and deep traditions kept girls from education in South Asia for quite some time. However, many cultural and political changes over the years have contributed to greater access to education for girls. On April 1, 2009, one country’s Parliament passed the Right to Education ACT (RTA), which stated that education was to become a fundamental right to the 192 million children in the country. Not only that but education was to become free and compulsory for children ages 6 to 14. [1] It was a landmark decision that opened the opportunity for many children across the highly-populated country. However, the realities of poverty, geography and infrastructure continue to pose challenges to fulfilling this wonderful law. At the time of the law’s passing, Time Magazine reported, “Forty-six percent of public schools do not have toilets for girls; it’s one reason parents are reluctant to send their daughters to class.” ...
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How Do We Help People Make the Education of a Girl Child a Priority?

Every country and culture has its barriers to the education of a girl child. From centuries of gender bias to war-torn communities to cultural norms, millions of girls worldwide face layers of obstacles to their education. A report by Save the Children reveals that one billion children live in poverty, 240 million live in areas impacted by conflict, and 575 million girls live in countries where discrimination against women and girls is common. [1] These statistics can leave us shocked and then numb as we wonder if there is any hope for their safety and for their future. Though we know that the poor will always be with us (Matthew 26:11), we also know that not a sparrow falls without God noticing (Matthew 10:29). God has prepared good deeds ahead of time for those who love Him (Ephesians 2:10). Statistics may shock and discourage, but we serve a God who can press down and multiply to overflowing (Luke 6:38). This is how God takes one sponsorship by someone thousands of miles away, press...
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Who Struggles More for – a Boy or Girl Child – Education Opportunities?

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Long-standing cultural viewpoints in many countries hinder a girl child education opportunity more than for a boy child. Historical and social constraints still favor boys if a choice has to be made between a boy and girl, especially in a family that must decide between the two. In some countries, the son is looked at for future support in a parent’s older years. If that boy is educated, they can make more with an education. Yet, keeping girls uneducated and out of the workforce costs everyone. According to the Malala Fund, if girls were educated and adding to the workforce, it could add $12 trillion to the global economy. [1] Not only that, but a county’s entire stability can be grounded with more women educated. “When a country gives all its children secondary education, they cut their risk of war in half. Education is vital for security around the world because extremism grows alongside inequality,” the Malala Fund reports. [2] So, if impoverished families are having to make distre...
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Sponsor a Girl: Education Is Key

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For many little girls in the United States and wealthier countries, when asked what they wanted to be when they grew up, it was assumed they would receive an education and go on to find an occupation they loved. Yet, in certain parts of the world, a girl is far from guaranteed an education. She waits and hopes for a sponsor. A girl’s education path is not the norm in many developing countries. Worldwide, approximately 169 million girls are out of school. Of this number, 32 million are primary school age, 30 million are lower-secondary age, and 67 million are upper-secondary age. [1] Though the reasons for this are varied, the results are often the same: ongoing poverty, gender-based violence, human trafficking and child marriage. “Despite substantial progress over the last two decades, girls still have on average lower levels of educational attainment than boys in many countries, especially at the secondary and tertiary levels,” noted a joint report published by the Global Partnership...
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Sanitation Sustainable Solutions: Addressing Long-Term Needs

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Addressing the global sanitation crisis necessitates a focus on longevity. While short-term relief is vital, sanitation sustainable solutions are key to lasting change. Behavior modification plays a crucial role in ensuring improvements persist. This approach paves the way for enduring health and hygiene advancements worldwide. Sustainability of Sanitation Efforts and the Importance of Behavior Change Sustainability is crucial for sanitation initiatives. Ensuring a clean environment involves constructing, maintaining, and correctly using toilets. Communities must take ownership and understand their role in maintaining sanitation infrastructure for long-term success. [1] Sustainability also entails safeguarding the environment. Proper waste disposal and treatment methods need to be employed to prevent contamination of water sources and soil. The consequences of failing to do so can be dire, perpetuating the cycle of waterborne diseases and environmental degradation. [2] Behavior change ...
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Sanitation Crisis Impact on Vulnerable Populations

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The sanitation crisis impact severely affects vulnerable populations worldwide. Marginalized communities in South Asia and urban centers lack proper facilities, directly impacting their lives. This global issue demands attention to address the often-overlooked consequences faced by impoverished individuals due to inadequate sanitation. Stories of Struggle and Resilience The sanitation crisis severely impacts vulnerable populations in South Asia. Many families in poverty-stricken areas lack clean, accessible toilets. A young girl in a remote village risks her safety when nature calls due to the absence of private, sanitary facilities. This harsh reality affects countless individuals daily. [1] Homeless individuals like Sarah face limited public restroom access in cities. Open defecation becomes their last resort, compromising dignity, safety, and community health. This traps vulnerable populations in a cycle of poor sanitation and related issues. [2] Sarah’s experience highlights the u...
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Sanitation Community-Led Solutions: Empowering Local Initiatives

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Communities play a pivotal role in battling open defecation and unsanitary conditions. National missionary workers and non-government organizations (NGOs) often lead grassroots change, implementing sanitation community-led solutions. These efforts drive meaningful progress alongside government and organizational support. Local Pastors and NGOs Taking the Lead Local leaders, including national missionaries and NGOs, understand their communities’ unique challenges. Their passion has led to remarkable changes in sanitation practices. Here are some inspiring examples: National Missionaries Fostering Change: National missionaries in South Asia advocate for clean water, sanitation, and hygiene where challenges are prevalent. [1] These missionary workers raise awareness, educate communities, and mobilize resources for sanitation projects, recognizing their importance. NGOs Making a Difference: NGOs like GFA World implement community-led sanitation solutions, facilitating toilet constructio...
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