There is a powerful human rights argument and a strong developmental case for achieving gender equality in education. It is an affordable investment with high returns. When girls are educated, livelihoods are improved, education is valued, and civic responsibility is enhanced. In most societies, however, deep-seated inequalities result in unequal access to and performance in education.

Although the global expansion of primary education has brought greater gender parity, too many girls and women still remain excluded from learning. 28 countries had not achieved gender parity in 2010. The challenges of getting all girls into school include advocacy, legal provisions, curricula, teacher training, literacy and lifelong learning.

UNESCO works to ensure quality inclusive education, notably concerning access, the learning environment and successful outcomes. The Organization also leads efforts to increase female literacy: a human right and a key to improving livelihoods, child and maternal health, as well as girls’ access to education, both in and out of schools.