Mrs. Bush knows that education is powerful in the fight against poverty and injustice. Well-educated children will come to know a world of understanding and tolerance and will imagine a hopeful future. Education reshapes communities, fosters democracy, and strengthens economies. Strong schools that emphasize basic skills and broad knowledge enable nations to prosper and the ideals of liberty to flourish.

In cooperation with the United Nations Educations, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the United States is doing more to help improve the chances for children in other nations. In her role as Honorary Ambassador for the United Nations Decade of Literacy, Mrs. Bush is helping raise awareness and mobilize support for the goal of bringing the life-saving gift of literacy to more children, women, and men around the world.