Female illiteracy is one of the main problems faced by the
developing countries in today’s world. Women and girls have often been denied
equal opportunities in the field of education. The male dominated societies
fail to understand the importance of female education, and hence, arises the
problem of female illiteracy.
The main
causes of this problem are gender stereotypes. The girl child is seen as a
burden on the family. She is treated unequally, as compared to the boys of the
same family. Parents do not consider her education important, as one day she
will get married and serve her husband and family. They also believe that their
sons are more capable than their daughters. All this results in either denial
for her education, or education till the elementary level only.
This can have
wide ranging effects in the society. An illiterate woman does not know the
value of education. She does not pay attention to the education of her
children. Thus, the vicious cycle of illiteracy gets repeated. She does not
understand her own rights, and this makes her a victim of gender discrimination
and inequality, once again.
It is said
that “If you educate a man, you educate an individual. But if you educate a
woman, you educate a family.” An educated woman ensures the education of her
children. She is also able to get employment, improving the economic condition
of the family, and contributes to the national income. Thus, female education
is a must for development.
The best way
to increase female education is by spreading awareness. The media, especially
the radio and television, can be used for this purpose. We can also try to
encourage parents to educate their daughters, and mention its advantages.
Governments all across the world have implemented schemes ensuring female
education.
Today, we see
women working as architects, pilots, teachers, doctors, engineers, accountants,
and in every other field. This is the result of female literacy. Nowadays,
societies are becoming more and more aware about the importance of woman
education, equality and freedom. We still need to spread this awareness, to
eradicate female illiteracy and to promote gender equality.
-
Manas Trivedi
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