JOHANNESBURG — During the recent Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, traditional ruler and Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II announced his support for girl’s education, urging political leaders at all levels to give priority to female education as they did with their male counterparts.

In response, Rudo Kwaramba-Kayombo, ONE in Africa Executive Director, said:

“We commend the leadership of the Emir of Kano, Sanusi II, as a traditional and religious leader as well as an advocate for social change. Education is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against extreme poverty, yet 130 million girls across the world are out of school. Because they are denied an education, these 130 million girls, of which 56 million are in Africa don’t have a fair chance to live a decent and productive life, and the entire world misses out by not benefitting from their potential.”   

“The Emir’s support for more girls to be in school puts a needed spotlight on the fact that Government and community leaders at the national and local levels must work together to break every barrier to girls education, measure every outcome, and invest in teachers. That way, we will ensure that girls are where they meant to be – in the classroom, are protected and learning .”