Global Laser Talk September 2011

Pitching an Editorial Writer on Education for All

Hi, this is Dave Schubert with the Houston RESULTS group. Do you have a minute? Is this a good time to talk? Thanks.

I have a topic I was hoping you might consider for an editorial our investment in global basic education.

Right now, the Super Committee on deficit reduction is talking about what needs to be cut in the federal budget. Well, there are smart choices and there are foolish choices. And then there are choices where a small investment now will actually save us big money in the long run.

A great example of this is basic education, which leads to improvements in a nation’s health and prosperity, and that leads to greater stability in countries around the world. Greater stability means fewer conflicts, which reduces the need for costly interventions.

And, investments in global development even have a bearing on our state economy. Last year developing countries purchased 50 percent of U.S. exports. And trade supports millions of jobs in Texas.

For me, personally, I’d like to see us invest in education because it s a matter of fairness. Why shouldn’t everyone get the chance at a decent education? Especially girls.

When we educate girls, the payoff is tremendous: better health for them and their children; greater income; lower rates of HIV infection; lower birth rates.

All of this, as I said, leads to more stable societies.

This is why the U.S. shouldn’t back away from its commitment to global basic education. In November, donors will be making 3-year commitments to the Global Partnership for Education, which helps poorer nations improve their education systems. The U.S. should make a $375 million pledge over those three years. It’s a very small investment with a very big payoff for a better world.

Can I send you some more information about this, and would you consider writing about it? Thanks.