International Day of Education: Unlocking Potential Through
Education for Women and Survivors of Modern Slavery
Written By Sally Irwin
Education is a fundamental human right and a powerful tool for transforming lives, families, and societies. Yet, as we mark International Day of Education, we must confront the stark reality that millions of women and girls worldwide are denied this right. For example, in Afghanistan, the Taliban’s ban on girls attending school beyond grade six has robbed an entire generation of their potential. As a result, there is a devastating consequence for their futures and their communities.
Globally, women make up two-thirds of the 773 million illiterate adults. Because when women are denied education, the ripple effects are enormous. What’s more, studies consistently show that educating women leads to lower child mortality, improved health outcomes, higher family incomes, and stronger communities. Amazing! Furthermore, UNESCO reports that every additional year of schooling for girls increases their future earnings by up to 20%. Yet these opportunities remain out of reach for so many.
The Barriers to Education for Survivors of Modern Slavery
Women and girls who have experienced modern slavery face unique challenges in accessing education. Because most have endured profound trauma, displacement, and exploitation. Also, their schooling is often interrupted or nonexistent due to forced labour, domestic servitude, or sexual exploitation. These survivors frequently emerge with little formal education, limited language skills, and low confidence—all compounded by the mental scars of trauma.
Trauma, in particular, presents a significant barrier to learning. Research shows that trauma affects the brain’s ability to process information, concentrate, and retain new knowledge. Survivors may feel overwhelmed in traditional educational settings, and without tailored support, they risk being left behind once again.
Education as a Tool for Rebuilding Lives
At The Freedom Hub, we believe education is the cornerstone of rebuilding lives for survivors of modern slavery. Our Survivor School provides tailored academic and vocational training designed to meet the unique needs of survivors.
We take a trauma-informed approach, offering a safe and supportive environment where survivors can heal and learn at their own pace. From essential life skills and language proficiency to job-readiness training and computer literacy, our programs are designed to empower survivors to live independently and contribute meaningfully to society.
Beyond education, we address the barriers survivors face in accessing work. For example, we provide connections to ethical employment pathways with screened partners. Through our Thrive Pillar, survivors not only learn practical skills but also gain the confidence and resilience needed to thrive in workplaces.
The Power of Education to Transform Communities
Every time a survivor completes a program at The Freedom Hub, the ripple effect of their success reaches far beyond the individual. Educated and empowered women can lift their families out of poverty. In addition, it creates more secure futures for their children and inspires others around them.
On this International Day of Education, let’s remember the power of education to transform lives and communities. Let’s also recommit to removing the barriers that prevent women—whether overseas or in Australia—from accessing the education they deserve. The theme for this year is all about Ai creating the loss of human agency.
“As computer and AI-driven systems become more sophisticated, the boundaries between human intention and machine-driven action often blur, raising critical questions about how to preserve, redefine, and, ideally, elevate human agency in an age of technological acceleration.”
I still think AI can be an amazing tool for education. For example, it can make a big difference for people for whom English is a second language. We are hoping to find funding in 2025 to add basic AI training into our work-ready stream for survivors in our school.
Education isn’t just about acquiring knowledge. It’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
At The Freedom Hub, we are honoured to play a part in this journey for survivors of modern slavery. But we can’t do it alone. To join us in this mission, consider supporting our Survivor School or engaging your business in ethical practices that fight modern slavery at its core. We can work together to ensure that no one in Australia is left behind in the right to have an education.
#InternationalDayOfEducation #EducationForAll #EndModernSlavery #TraumaInformedEducation #TheFreedomHub