Cycle For Education – Why It Matters…

Jolandie Rust is about to set off on the biggest challenge of her life – in six days she will begin the 40,000km circumnavigation of Africa. Just one girl, just one bicycle. But this challenge means more to Jolandie than physical achievement… along the way she hopes to serve as an inspiration for girls everywhere and spread a message that education is the key to prosperity. Jolandie, as Iduka’s Goodwill Ambassador, will be delivering an open letter to African leaders in each country, asking them to promote and protect higher education in the continent.

Education is an incredibly important issue. The second Millennium Development Goal, outlined 11 years ago, continues to call for universal primary education. This crucial education requirement will construct the foundation for secondary school learning, which ultimately provides students with the development needed to progress into further education and the world of sustainable employment. The transformative power of education to break generational cycles of poverty must be recognised! Through education boys and girls can gain the skills and knowledge needed to transform the prosperity of local communities and support the development of their nation.

Sadly, the truth remains that Africa has the lowest primary school completion rates in the world and the majority of out-of-school children are girls (UNESCO).

School children in Kenya

Iduka is currently working with local students and volunteers in all African countries in order to assist African students to achieve their dream of further education. In particular, Iduka will be specifically targeting girls’ education. Jolandie, by representing Iduka, will be giving the campaign a voice. Cycle For Education is not just about pushing the boundaries of solo female cycling, it is also about creating momentum for a cause that so many young boys and girls dream of – higher education!

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