Education: Foundation of women’s freedom

You educate a man; you educate a man. You educate a woman; you educate a generation. – Brigham Young

When I talk about education, I am not referring only to bachelor’s or associate degrees printed on paper. I am talking about the kind of education that fosters personal and professional growth, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It is the foundation that shapes how we think, how we make decisions, and how we build our lives. It is important for everyone, but for women, it is especially powerful. Education empowers women, promotes gender equality, and improves health, economic stability, and overall well-being. It is not just a personal benefit; it is a fundamental human right that strengthens families, communities, and societies.

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Breaking generational mindsets

In many parts of the world, education is still out of reach for girls. Girls are often viewed as liabilities, and their education is considered a waste of money because they are expected to get married and live under the support of a spouse. Families sometimes see spending on a girl’s education as an extra burden, especially when combined with dowry expenses, which still exist despite being illegal in many countries. The belief that girls will only raise families and therefore do not need education is deeply rooted and damaging. It is heartbreaking that this mindset still exists.

Education helps women make better decisions, not just for themselves but for their families as well. It teaches us how to analyze problems, evaluate options, and think about long-term consequences. An educated woman is better equipped to advocate for her own welfare and the welfare of those who depend on her. She does not have to rely blindly on others to make choices on her behalf.

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Education as financial and emotional security

Education opens doors to opportunities at every stage of life. It allows women to earn, to have financial independence, and to build resilience. When life throws unexpected challenges such as financial instability, divorce, or an abusive relationship, education becomes a lifeline. It gives women the power to make informed, courageous decisions for themselves and their children.

Education is an asset that no one can take away from you. It creates strong mothers, bold homemakers, and active participants in society. Educated women refuse to remain passive. They become decision-makers in their own lives. They raise their voices, question unfair systems, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them. Education has the power to change not just individual lives, but entire generations.

Many women step away from the workforce for pregnancy and childcare. Returning can be difficult, especially without strong educational foundations. Education provides that backbone. It makes it easier to re-enter professional life, pivot careers, or adapt to changing job markets. It keeps women connected to their sense of identity and independence.

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Shaping strong families and future generations

Educated women also place high value on their children’s education. They create environments that encourage learning, discipline, and curiosity. When mothers understand the value of education, that passes naturally to their children.

Education supports women in pursuing careers, participating in politics, and advocating for their rights. It helps break cycles of control, dependence, and abuse. Educated women are more likely to understand their rights and less likely to accept injustice as normal.

There is also a strong link between education and health. Educated women tend to make better health decisions for themselves and their families. They understand the importance of nutrition, preventive care, and emotional well-being. In many cases, education also improves financial literacy, helping women manage money wisely and lift their families out of poverty.

Education holds the key to financial independence. And since financial independence is so essential for women, I strongly think that education is the single most important asset a woman can have.

In my own life, I have thanked my parents’ countless times for giving me the best education they could. During my toughest moments, my education has always been my anchor. It has helped me stay strong, independent, and true to myself. Education gave me choices.

And for a woman, having choices is everything.

Signing out,

Sana