Shakira Named Honorary Chair of Education Action Week

The Colombian singer mediated a discussion between the British Prime Minister and the President of the World Bank regarding universal education

      Upholding her promise to stand up for children worldwide, Shakira mediated a phone conversation Monday afternoon between British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and World Bank President Robert Zoellick. According to a press release from the Colombian singer’s reps, the discussion regarded education on a global level and the issue of children in developing countries who cannot attend school.

      “Universal education isn’t about charity – it’s about investment,” expressed 31-year-old singer. “By providing vulnerable children with a basic education we can create a better, safer world.”

      According to reports, Shakira is currently in Washington D.C. acting as Honorary Chairperson for Education Action Week, organized by the Global Campaign for Education (GCE) for this week (Apr. 21-27). “We are thrilled that Shakira has agreed to be Honorary Chairperson of the GCE’s Action Week,” said Gene Sperling, Chair of the U.S. Chapter of the GCE. “Her participation is invaluable for raising public awareness of the importance of ensuring every child around the world gets a quality education.”

      On Tuesday, the “Pies descalzos” singer will take part in a press conference alongside congresswoman Nita Lowely, other members of Congreso and students from various parts of the United States, in the hopes of raising awareness about the Education for All Act 2007 (EFA), whose objective is “ensure that the U.S. provides the resources and leadership to ensure a successful international effort to provide all children with a quality basic education.” The initiative also calls for an investment of $1 billion for bilateral global basic education during the 2008 fiscal year.

      “As a long-time champion for education for those most excluded in Latin America and girls’ education everywhere, Shakira is an ideal choice to be the Honorary Chair for the Global Campaign for Education,” said Camilla Croso, Latin America Campaign Coordinator for the GCE.