There are immediate benefits for the girls attending the new girl-friendly school built in Abu Sir -- and at schools in other rural communities in Egypt. They are taught problem-solving and analysis techniques - a new style of learning versus standard memorization used in many Egyptian schools. The girls' self esteem is improved, and they learn environmental and health concepts that they bring to their families.

Over the longer term, educated girls are tomorrow's educated mothers.

Here is a typical day at the girl-friendly school in Abu Sir:

• Physical exercises led by children
• Punch cards (Attendance)
• Greeting group time
• Learning corners
• Presentations and feedback
• First multi-ability session
• Recess
• Second multi-ability session
• Break
• Third multi-ability session
• Sports
• Cleaning time