What difference would a gift of education make?

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Today I learned that ‘Over 300 million children around the world do not have access to education and most likely will never learn to read or write’. This information was shared at a business breakfast meeting I attended in London. The event was organised by the charity Room to Read, a charity who believe that every child has a right to education irrespective of gender. Although I had heard of the charity previously through a friend of mine, I suppose until this morning I hadn’t really given a great deal of thought to the implications of not being able to read and write. For me, I love to read and write. I can often be found quite happily writing journals, short stories and letters, yes even in these times of speedier communication methods. I’m going to launch a ‘Polish up your penmanship’ campaign soon. Watch out for details!

I hadn’t really thought about it before now but having had the opportunity to be educated has really made a difference to me. It has allowed me to read and write and in turn improve my communication skills. The gift of education has allowed me to study, take on board additional learning and develop my career and enjoy the rewards over the years. This meant a better job and a better lifestyle. This gift of education has provided endless opportunities for me to develop my potential and that of others as I engaged with both adults and children through training programmes I’ve designed and delivered.

What difference would the gift of education make to a child who wouldn’t normally receive such a gift? What hopes and dreams might be fulfilled if we helped to make that happen?