Malala Yousafzai, the girl from Swat, addressed the UN Youth Assembly on July 12, celebrating not only her 16th birthday but also reiterating her resolve for education. It was a determined speech that drew praise abroad but some criticism back home.
Quotes from her speech:
“I am not against anyone. Neither am I here to speak in terms of personal revenge against the Taliban or any other terrorist group. I am here to speak for the right of education for every child. I want education for the sons and daughters of the Taliban and all the terrorists and extremists. I do not even hate the Talib who shot me.”
“So let us wage a glorious struggle against illiteracy, poverty and terrorism, let us pick up our books and our pens, they are the most powerful weapons. One child, one teacher, one book and one pen can change the world. Education is the only solution. Education first.”
