Celebration of Girls’ and Women’s Education: UNESCO Prize 2023 in Beijing
In an enlightening event held in Beijing this past Thursday, two leading figures, Peng Liyuan, the wife of China’s President Xi Jinping, and Audrey Azoulay, the esteemed director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), came together to honor the recipients of the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education for the year 2023.
Peng Liyuan’s commitment to the cause isn’t just in her capacity as the first lady of China, but she also serves as a UNESCO special envoy for the advancement of girls’ and women’s education. Alongside Azoulay, the duo awarded the prestigious accolades to the deserving representatives of China Children and Teenagers’ Fund (CCTF) and the Pakistan Alliance for Girls Education (PAGE).
The Significance of the Prize and China’s Cooperation
In her heartfelt address, Peng Liyuan emphasized the symbiotic relationship between China and UNESCO. She expressed gratitude for their close collaboration, highlighting how the establishment of this particular prize has created a template for global emulation. “This initiative,” Peng said, “has not only set precedents but has also provided a trove of experiences, serving as an archetype for advancing girls’ and women’s education globally.”
Liyuan elaborated on the evolving landscape of girls’ and women’s education, observing the dynamic scenarios, stipulations, and hurdles of the modern era. In light of these shifting paradigms, she implored all stakeholders to augment their commitment. Her appeal was not just in terms of financial and infrastructural support but extended to the content of education itself.
“Women’s education needs to encapsulate a holistic approach,” Peng articulated, emphasizing the importance of health education, digital literacy, and science modules tailored specifically for women. Such an education, she believes, would not only cater to their health needs but also bolster their capabilities, fostering a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Heralding education as the instrument of transformation, Peng voiced her aspirations: “Our dream is for more and more individuals to rally behind the mission of girls’ and women’s education. Through education, women can redirect their fates, actualizing their inherent value and potential.”
Affirming China’s stance on this cause, Peng declared that the nation is unwavering in its dedication to safeguarding women’s equal right to education. “China,” she said, “is poised and eager to foster global partnerships, catalyzing international dialogues and collaborations that can amplify the caliber and reach of girls’ and women’s education on a worldwide scale.”
Gratitude from UNESCO and Future Endeavors
Audrey Azoulay, representing UNESCO, expressed her profound appreciation to the Chinese government and lauded Peng Liyuan for her stellar efforts in propelling the movement for girls’ and women’s education.
Azoulay shared her optimism about UNESCO’s association with China, “Our collaboration with China has been immensely fruitful, and we are eager to intensify this partnership. Together, we can catalyze a brighter future for girls’ and women’s education globally.”
The UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education stands unique in UNESCO’s portfolio, singularly focusing on the promotion of female education. This year, the honor was bestowed upon CCTF for its innovative ‘Spring Bud Project’ and PAGE for their groundbreaking ‘STAR School program’.
The significance of this ceremony wasn’t just limited to the awards. It served as a nexus for about 300 attendees, drawing representatives from various UN agencies stationed in Beijing, ambassadors from related countries, educators and learners from local Chinese educational establishments, and female emissaries from diverse sectors.
A prelude to the main event was a private meeting between Peng Liyuan and Audrey Azoulay. In their exchange, both leaders deliberated on strategies and visions for the enhancement of girls’ and women’s education on a global scale.
Conclusion
The UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education ceremony in Beijing was more than just an award presentation. It was a testament to the global commitment to the advancement of girls’ and women’s education. With leaders like Peng Liyuan and Audrey Azoulay championing the cause, the future of female education looks promising, echoing the sentiment that when women rise, societies thrive.
Read More: