Egypt launched its National Girls' Education Initiative in 2003 with the goal of providing quality education to underprivileged girls living in remote rural areas who are deprived of educational opportunities due to geographic, social and economic realities and who have little opportunity for a better future.

Today, about 7,000 girls are getting their first opportunity for formal education in 201 one-room school buildings constructed by Springboard -- Educating the Future, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, in collaboration with Egypt's National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) and the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development. The schools were built in communities identified by NCCM that have high rates of out-of-school girls. Apache Corporation, which built the first school in Abu Sir, a small community about 10 miles south of the Giza Pyramids, provided construction oversight and administrative support for the project.

These young girls now have an opportunity learn to read and write, to add numbers and to learn skills that will help them make life better for them, their families and their villages.

Today, Springboard and volunteers from Apache and other companies in Egypt are maintaining and improving the schools to enhance the learning experience for the girls and their teachers. Landscaping and fencing were installed at many schools. Recently, outside lights have been replaced with more durable fixtures; screens were added for all windows, and wooden bars were installed to hang artwork and teaching aids. Volunteers provide schools supplies and books and organize field trips for the eager students.

These activities enhance the educational experience for the girls and help the teachers and the girls understand they should take care of the schools just as they take pride in their individual accomplishments.

Springboard's schools are making a real difference in the lives of these girls and their families. Please consider making a contribution to maintain and enhance this program.