UNCRC | Save the Children

hero the economy of words — “When I help Najma she becomes happy and thinks that I helped her. She has learned more now and in the morning her teacher is not angry because she has done her homework. This is a good initiative and should be everywhere else.” **Muneeba**

Save the Children’s Literacy Boost programme runs in 24 different countries. It aims to boost children’s confidence, extend their vocabulary and create opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. It is estimated that 250 million children between the age of five and 12 cannot read, write or count.

That’s a third of all primary school aged children. For many, that means they will remain trapped in a life of poverty and hardship.

Save the Children wants to change that. For children like Muneeba and Najma, a good education can mean a brighter future.

muneeba and najma choosing books — “Teacher made us reading buddies; we live near each other and are good friends. We study and play together, help each other in learning and we go to school together. By learning from each other our reading has improved.” **Najma**

In Pakistan, the literacy rate is worrying low. Only 58% of primary school aged children can read and write. For girls, the rate drops to 47%.

Since Save the Children started working in Muneeba and Najma’s school, the roll has increased. Fifty children now attend every day. Many families used to take their children out of school at about the age of eight, but now families and communities are beginning to understand how education can transform lives.