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The need to educate young girls is of paramount importance, justice and fairness which allow for gender empowerment are essential requirements to conquer poverty (Abu-Ghaida & Klasen, 2003).

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There are many obstacles to overcome to achieve MDG3; poverty, patriarchal political systems, the protection and security of girls in rural areas of developing countries getting to school and the relevance that a school education has to them in their lives. (UNICEF 2007).

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As gender equity rises, the opportunities for women to work and provide for themselves and their families without relying on a man is increased, providing not only freedom for women on an individual level, but also economic growth within their communities and even countries. (Moss, 2002)

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This way of life for many developing countries was disrupted when these communities were discovered and colonised. Many men were shipped far from home and forced into slavery, those that were left behind, including women were also forced into slave labour on plantations. New agricultural systems were implemented meaning that production of food for local people was replaced with the farming of cotton, sugar and other goods that would be sold by the colonisers for their own wealth and gain (Binns, 1995). The culture, family dynamics and way of life for so many was devastated and destroyed.

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UNICEF, 2008 recorded that education is a significant factor that influences child marriage. Educated girls, as mentioned previously, are more capable of gaining independence and control over their futures, breaking away from stereotypes that hold them back.

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Increased development also suggests that there are increased health facilities available, allowing women to seek healthcare and providing better outcomes not only for themselves, but for their families and therefore whole communities (UNFPA, 2008).

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Empowerment is defined by Alsop and Heinsohn (2005) as the ability and freedom a person has to make choices, and the power they have to take action and create their own chosen results through their decisions.