Today, 72 million children around the world, the majority of whom are girls, are denied the opportunity to go to school. Access to education is a right, not a privilege. Today's world requires that all citizens have a basic education. This is necessary for economic growth, combating terrorism, social stability and democracies that work for the people.

Ensuring educational opportunity is essential to defeating global terrorism. Education saves lives, lifts people of poverty, and gives them the opportunity to become productive members of their society.