On the recordMarch 3, 2020
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, when we break down the barriers holding women back, they lift up entire communities. Top economists back this up. The World Bank says that financing girls' education has the highest return on investment in the developing world. We know that the impact isn't just economic. When girls have access to education, they can inspire millions, empower their communities, and change the world. Look at Malala Yousafzai. Malala bravely put her education to use by blogging about the brutality of Taliban rule in her hometown and advocating for girls' rights to education. The Pakistani Taliban tried to silence her with a violent attack on her life. She survived, and she didn't back down. Malala's continued commitment to advancing women's rights and expanding access to education has resonated with millions of people and spurred action around the world. When we look at Malala, we see an inspiring source of strength, of dedication, and of bravery. We also see what women are capable of when they have the opportunity to go to school and use their voices. So, I am pleased that we are moving forward this bill named in Malala's honor that will strengthen the United States' investments in educational opportunities for Pakistani girls. The Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act will require that at least 50 percent of USAID's Merit and Needs-Based Scholarships in Pakistan are awarded to women.…





