This is an annual event that brings together a cross-section of Educators, researchers, advocates, authors, and practitioners from around Somalia will convene and share ideas about how best to prepare and empower girls to be ethical, globally-minded changemakers who lead with bravery, competence, and empathy. 

We are excited to take what we have learned during the pandemic and, through virtual technology, connect thousands of educators online with those who can attend in person, thereby creating in real time a truly global community of women and men committed to empowering girls and young women to lead lives of purpose.

Why Girl’s Education is Necessary
1. Social Justice: Social justice starts with girls’ education, and is advanced by young women leaders working together for systems change.

2. Economic Development: Educating girls is the best investment we can make to alleviate poverty and create a safer world.
When women are provided with equal rights and equal access to education, they go on to participate in
business and economic activity. Increased earning power and income combat current and future poverty through feeding, clothing, and providing for entire families.

3. Women’s Leadership: DIRAD supports young women to become leaders in their communities and beyond, joining forces to change the status quo for women and girls for good.
Across the globe, women are underrepresented as voters and restricted from political involvement. The United Nations Women’s programs on leadership and participation suggest that civic education, training, and all-around empowerment will ease this gap.

Investing in girls’ education and women’s leadership is one of the most powerful ways of tackling the climate emergency.
Every girl has the right to a safe, formal, quality education and access to lifelong learning. However, due to a combination of factors, many girls are forced to leave school while others never have the opportunity to go in the first place.