LONDON (AP) — Schoolgirls in east London greeted U.S. first lady Michelle Obama with song, interpretive dance and squeals of joy Tuesday as she traveled to the British capital to promote education for girls.
Obama met with students at the Mulberry School for Girls, some of whom were holding American and British flags, and she will host a round-table discussion to promote the “Let Girls Learn” initiative, launched in March. She also took tea with Prince Harry and will meet with Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha.
Writing in the Financial Times, Obama urged world leaders to “throw the school gates open to girls everywhere,” arguing that it is a heartbreaking injustice to have 62 million girls out of school. She appealed for action, declaring that it is a security, economic and health issue.
However, she said it was more than that — that it was deeply personal.
“Every time I meet these girls on my travels abroad, I am blown away by their passion, intelligence and hunger to learn — and I cannot help but see my daughters in them,” Obama wrote. “Like my own girls, each of these young women has the spark of something extraordinary inside. The only difference is that my girls have had the opportunity to develop their promise.”
The U.S. and Britain announced plans to expand their commitment to the issue, partnering to support girls’ education in countries affected by crisis such as Sierra Leone, Liberia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
About $200 million will be devoted to the efforts, which also include supporting teacher training, girls’ leadership camps and other community based programs.
“Every girl, no matter where she lives, deserves the opportunity to develop the promise inside of her,” Mrs. Obama wrote.
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(Photo Source: AP)
