5 October 2013 – Press Release

– Teachers empower women when they push girls to complete secondary and tertiary studies –

 

Geneva, Switzerland, 05 October 2013 – The International Federation of University Women (IFUW) calls for more and better training and support for teachers from communities, parents and governments on the occasion of World Teachers Day today. Well-trained teachers are the key to an education that provides real learning. Teachers must be given the necessary support and resources – financial and other – which will enable them to provide quality education. Learning success depends on the support of parents and the community. Teaching success comes from effective recruitment by schools, funding of infrastructure and salaries by governments, and ongoing vocational training for teachers.

 

“Good teachers are indispensable to education quality and outcomes, and this must be widely recognized by governments all over the world,” said IFUW President Catherine Bell. “Education is the cornerstone of development and sustainability and we encourage communities, parents and teachers to work as partners in educating their daughters.”

 

The worldwide enrollment ratio for girls in secondary school has jumped in 20 years from 45.1 in 1990 to 69.5 in 2011, although deep disparities persist between countries and between income groups within countries. Motivated and well-trained teachers empower girls when they encourage them to complete secondary and tertiary studies.

 

Teachers’ salaries can account for up to 80% of education budgets, and government spending on education is a direct reflection of states’ support for teachers. In order to attract qualified and motivated teachers, governments need to ensure adequate remuneration and working conditions. When parents and teachers are fully equipped to facilitate learning, girls have vastly improved access to a good education. It is important that parents, notably fathers, work closely with teachers in order to provide educational support their daughters.

 

The International Federation of University Women (IFUWI) is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and has an international membership. Founded in 1919, IFUW is the leading girls’ and women’s global organization run by and for women, advocating for women’s rights, equality and empowerment through access to quality education and training up to the highest levels.

– ends –

For more information you can contact:

Contact Person:Nina Joyce

Tel: +41 22 731 23 80

Email: nj@GWI.org