Second Book Club Meeting: Malala and the Right to Education

On 8 July, the second session of the Book Club on Children’s Rights focused on the story of a young girl who became a global symbol of courage and the right to education — Malala Yousafzai. Participants explored Malala: My Story of Standing Up for Girls’ Education, a powerful autobiography that reveals the reality of growing up under the threat of violence, while standing firm for one’s rights. The discussion centered around the barriers girls face in accessing education and the impact of social expectations, poverty, and conflict.

What We Did
We began with a playful warm-up activity called “What’s in the Box?” where participants explored unexpected objects through touch, awakening their curiosity and setting the stage for an active and engaging discussion. The core of the session was a deep conversation around Malala’s life: What shaped her courage? Why are girls still denied education in some parts of the world? What risks did she take, and what impact did she make? Using a Kahoot quiz, we reinforced facts about girls' education globally, and followed it with a short presentation on the right to education, linking Malala’s story to international human rights.
Reflections
To conclude, students shared what surprised them most, what they learned, and what part of Malala’s journey would stay with them. Many expressed a new appreciation for their own schooling and a desire to advocate for those who still face barriers.
Next Session Preview
Books: Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams and Khadra Mohammed and Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. In the upcoming session, participants will explore two powerful stories that reflect what it means to live through war, lose your home, and still hold on to hope.