Islamabad, January 12, 2025 – In a landmark event that underscores the growing global focus on education for girls, the Muslim World League (MWL), under the patronage of Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, officially launched its international initiative, Girls' Education in Muslim Communities, today in Islamabad. The initiative, aimed at raising awareness and fostering educational opportunities for girls across Muslim-majority countries, is supported by the Pakistani government and marks a significant step toward ensuring equal access to education for young girls in the Islamic world.
The launch conference, held in Islamabad, was attended by a distinguished group of leaders and organizations. Among those present were Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary General of the MWL and Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, and Hissein Brahim Taha, the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The conference was further supported by muftis from across the Muslim world, members of key Islamic scholarly councils, the Islamic Fiqh Academy of the MWL, the International Islamic Fiqh Academy of the OIC, and prominent figures from senior education sectors and Islamic universities.
The central aim of the Girls' Education in Muslim Communities initiative is to generate awareness about the critical importance of girls' education within Muslim societies. Through a series of joint programs, collaborative agreements, and educational campaigns, the initiative seeks to inspire action on a global scale. One of the primary outcomes of the initiative is the Islamabad Declaration for Girls' Education, which will be presented to both governmental and non-governmental organizations worldwide. The declaration calls for the establishment of an international day dedicated to advancing the education of girls, a move that aims to galvanize global support for this crucial issue
In addition to raising awareness, the initiative also focuses on the practical aspects of advancing girls’ education through the launch of a platform for international partnerships. This platform will serve as a collaborative space for regional and international organizations committed to women's empowerment and girls’ education. Several agreements were signed during the event, strengthening ties with organizations that share the initiative's goals and furthering efforts to address educational inequalities for girls.
During his address, Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa praised the initiative as a transformative step toward the advancement of girls' education, highlighting its practical and results-driven approach. He emphasized that the initiative is not only a vision but also a series of high-quality agreements designed to ensure tangible outcomes for communities in need. “The Islamabad Declaration will serve as the backbone of this initiative, solidifying our commitment to making girls' education a reality in Muslim-majority nations,” he said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also commended the MWL for its dedication to improving access to education for girls, acknowledging that ensuring equal educational opportunities for young girls remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time. “This initiative is a vital step toward providing the next generation of girls with the tools they need to succeed and contribute to their communities,” he stated.
OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha further affirmed the support of the OIC for the initiative, highlighting the organization's readiness to collaborate and contribute to its success across the Islamic world. He expressed confidence that the initiative would foster positive change, ensuring that the girls of tomorrow are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.
The launch of the Girls' Education in Muslim Communities initiative represents a significant moment in the ongoing global movement to improve educational opportunities for girls, particularly in regions where cultural, economic, and societal barriers often hinder their access to learning. By bringing together Islamic scholars, government leaders, and international organizations, this initiative aims to not only raise awareness but also provide concrete solutions and partnerships that will help pave the way for a brighter future for girls in Muslim communities worldwide.
Through collective efforts and a shared commitment to change, the MWL’s initiative promises to be a transformative force in achieving educational equality and empowering girls for a better tomorrow.
