International Day of Education
24 January 2025 marks UNESCO’s International Day of Education, a day dedicated to promoting the transformative power of education in fostering equality, peace, and opportunity. This year’s theme, “Learning for Lasting Peace”, highlights the critical role of education in breaking harmful cycles, such as forced marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), that continue to threaten young lives worldwide.
Forced marriage and FGM are human rights violations that disproportionately affect girls. Over 200 million women and girls globally have experienced FGM, while countless others face the risk of being forced into marriage, including within the UK. Literature and education, like Aneeta Prem’s But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers, play a pivotal role in raising awareness, encouraging disclosures, and inspiring action.
But It’s Not Fair: A Lifeline Against Forced Marriage
Aneeta Prem’s debut novel, But It’s Not Fair, follows two sisters, Vinny and Sofia, living in London’s East End. Vinny, 15, dreams of becoming a teacher, while her younger sister Sofia is preoccupied with celebrities and what she sees as life’s daily “unfairness.” Their world changes when Vinny befriends Abby, a new neighbour whose family holds traditional views.
When Abby travels abroad for her cousin Sarina’s wedding and doesn’t return, Vinny and Sofia must face a stark reality: the issue of forced marriage is closer than they ever imagined.
Why It Works in Schools
- Relatable Characters: Vinny and Sofia’s experiences reflect real struggles, helping students connect emotionally with the story.
- Safeguarding Education: Students learn to recognise the warning signs of forced marriage and how to seek help.
- Proven Impact: Schools using But It’s Not Fair report increased safeguarding disclosures and more open conversations among students.
But It’s Not Fair is PSHE-accredited, with ready-to-use lesson plans that encourage critical thinking and empower students to act.
Cut Flowers: Shining a Light on FGM
Building on the success of But It’s Not Fair, Aneeta Prem’s second novel, Cut Flowers, tackles the topic of FGM through the story of two friends, Katie and Sophia.
Katie’s summer begins with excitement as her family travels to Africa to meet relatives, but soon she uncovers a long-hidden family secret. Her cousin Sweetpea faces the risk of FGM, and Katie must take action to protect her while grappling with her family’s past. Back in England, Sophia’s seaside adventure with a new friend leads her to discover her own way of raising awareness about global issues.
Why It’s Essential
- Educational and Engaging: Cut Flowers uses narrative storytelling to highlight the dangers of FGM and the importance of speaking out.
- Actionable Lessons: Young readers learn how to challenge harmful practices and make a difference in their communities.
- Global Relevance: FGM is a worldwide issue, and this book equips students with knowledge to address it at home and abroad.
Real-World Impact of But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers
Both novels have been integrated into schools across the UK, with tangible results:
- Safeguarding Success: Educators report an increase in disclosures related to forced marriage and FGM after introducing the books.
- Empowered Students: Young people feel more confident identifying risks and seeking help for themselves or their peers.
- Community Projects: Schools have used the books to inspire campaigns, presentations, and creative work aimed at raising awareness.
How to Get Your Copies
While Freedom Charity has donated nearly 100,000 copies of But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers, these essential safeguarding tools are also available for purchase.
- Buy Online: Both books are available through major retailers.
- Visit Freedom Charity: Purchase directly for bulk orders and access PSHE lesson plans.
By investing in these books, schools and individuals help support safeguarding efforts and reach more at-risk young people.
Take Action This International Day of Education
On 24 January 2025, you can make a difference:
- Purchase the Books: Equip your school or community with But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers.
- Teach the Lesson Plans: Use the PSHE-accredited materials to tackle forced marriage and FGM in your classrooms.
- Spread Awareness: Share stories and resources on social media using #EducationSavesLives.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Urge policymakers to make safeguarding literature mandatory in schools.
By championing education, we can empower the next generation to challenge harmful practices and create a future where all young people thrive.
Why These Books Are Perfect for International Day of Education
Aneeta Prem’s But It’s Not Fair and Cut Flowers aligns seamlessly with the mission of UNESCO’s International Day of Education. They don’t just raise awareness—they inspire action, spark conversations, and equip students with tools to protect themselves and others.
Celebrate the power of education this year by making these life-changing books part of your safeguarding strategy.