Declared “Malala Day” by the United Nations, Malala delivered the message through Geo News, calling on her countrymen and women to pay importance to education.
“On my birthday today, this is my message to all Pakistanis: believe in yourself, speak up for your rights, acquire education because it is very important for the future of Pakistan. It is only through education you can change the future of your country and take it forward,” she said.
“My message to all parents is, if you can give something precious to your children, it is education. Though education, they can progress and contribute to their country and family.”
Malala also demanded that the government prioritised education. “I ask the government to spend, to fulfil its promise of allocating 4% budget to education. The government must ensure that all children are given the opportunity to acquire education, so that they can make their country proud.”
Birthday tributes have poured in for the young Nobel laureate from around the world. In his message on Malala Day, chief minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Malala has set an example of bravery and courage for all women.