On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared October 11 as the International Day of the Girl to recognize girls’ rights and draw attention to the challenges they face around the world.
This day is dedicated to the importance of supporting girls, their right to education, and a healthy lifestyle, which are essential for their successful development into adulthood. Girls have immense potential to change the world – today they are leaders in their communities, and in the future, they can become successful professionals, entrepreneurs, political leaders, and mentors.
In 2024, the theme of the International Day of the Girl is “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” This theme aims to amplify the voices of girls and give them the opportunity to actively shape strategies and policies that ensure a better future for all of us. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers, especially in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), and supports girls’ education worldwide.
The UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education will be awarded on October 16, 2024, at 6:30 pm CET. All interested individuals are invited to join the event at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris or participate online via live stream after registering here.
This prestigious prize recognizes outstanding and innovative contributions by individuals, institutions, and organizations in advancing girls’ and women’s education. The prize is unique in showcasing successful projects that improve the educational prospects of girls and women and enhance the quality of their lives.
Funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the prize is awarded annually to two laureates, each receiving a cash award of USD $50,000 to further their work in the field of girls’ and women’s education. The prize was first awarded in 2016 by the Director-General of UNESCO.
Selection and Nomination Process
The next nomination round for the 2025 UNESCO Prize will begin in early March as part of the celebration of International Women’s Day.
2023 Laureates
The 2023 laureates include:
- Pakistan Alliance for Girls Education, which helps girls overcome challenges to access education.
- China Children and Teenagers’ Fund, which helps children from disadvantaged families succeed through education.
More detailed information about the laureates and their achievements is available in brochures and video materials presented by UNESCO.
This prize not only recognizes significant achievements but also contributes to transforming the lives of women and girls worldwide by giving them opportunities for a better future.
Join the celebration and support education for girls and women worldwide!