Empowering Women Through Education

Dr. Biden meets with students in an English class at the Anjuman-i-Islam Saif Tyabji Girl's school. (Photo Credit: Carrie Levay)

As an educator, today was a special day for me in Mumbai. I visited the Anjuman-i-Islam Saif Tyabji Girl’s school. This all-girls Muslim school was founded in 1939 and serves 5,500 girls in grades K-12. The school has committed itself to being a dedicated public servant in the Mumbai area - many of the students are from local orphanages. I am happy to report that the US has recognized what an important role this school plays in the Mumbai community - we sponsor English classes and helped establish their computer lab. India and the US both understand the important opportunities education can provide - no matter the gender of the student. When the work force has access to education it creates more experienced workers as well as confident young women.

When I arrived at the school I was greeted by a lively band and then stopped by an English class. In fact, I caught the beginnings of a lesson on "conjunctions!" One of the students, Miss Zafar, was a spirited emcee and gave me a wonderful introduction to all the students at a school assembly.

As a mother of a daughter I want girls to understand that they can do anything they put their mind to. I reminded the students that education will give them the tools they need to succeed on a lifelong path. A good education will give them - and their families - the opportunity to excel regardless of gender. The students that I've met around the world, especially in India, have shown great passion for learning and this dedication is what will empower women throughout this country and abroad to leave the world better than how we found it.

I'm so excited to see what these special young women do in the future. 

Learn more about Dr. Biden's visit to India: 

• Caring for India's Women and Children
• Women's Commitment to Community Health: Nutrition, Education, and Vaccinations in Partnership with USAID