Education First – Class 11 English Unit 1 Exercise Solution, Summary & Notes
Education First – Malala Yousafzai | Class 11 English Unit 1
“Education First” is an speech given by Malala Yousafzai to the United Nations General Assembly on her 16th birthday. In this inspiring talk, Malala calls not just for education but for quality education, making it possible for every girl to go to school and for girls and boys to learn the same content. Her narrative is used to bring attention to promote peace, equality, education and human rights.
It is listed in the NEB Grade 11 English course under the unit "Education and Humanity".
Education First Summary (Malala Yousafzai Speech)
The speech given by Malala Yousafzai starts with the non-violence and forgiveness, the sentiments she shares even with the Taliban who attempted to kill her for speaking out. Aramide is not revengeful, rather, she uses her platform to be the voice for millions of children that are deprived of education.
One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world, she says. Education is the only panacea to ills such as poverty ignorance terrorism and gender bias.
Malala honours brilliant composes er’ Gandhi, Bacha Khan, Mother Teresa and Martin Luther King jr., advocating for her editorial of protest. She emphasises that child has the right of education, no matter what is the caste, color and religion.
Questions and Answers about Education First
a. What is the speech’s message from Malala Yousafzai?
The core of what she says is that education is a basic right for all children. She demands that everyone has equal access to a good education, and tells the leaders of the world to spend money on schools, not weapons of war.
b. Why didn’t Malala want to exact “vengeance,” or retribution, on the Taliban gunman?
Malala decided not to seek revenge because she believes in peace and forgiveness. The image was clear: she refused to descend to the depths of violence and venom and would rather elevate her voice with knowledge and speaking out.
c. What does Malala mean when she says, “The pen is mightier than the sword”?
By this, she refers to education and knowledge as more powerful weapons of change rather than violence. Only with education, people can stand against injustice, become aware, and help develop peaceful communities.
d. How does Malala explain why education is important?
Education gives power to the people, educates against poverty and anti-democracy, and enhances peace and equality. She offers personal anecdotes as well as global examples to make her point.
e. In her speech, why does Malala speak on behalf of girls?
Sure, too many girls are not allowed to go to school in too many countries. Malala herself was shot for going to school. She is convinced that girls need to be educated to ensure a better future for all of us!
Major Themes in “Education First”
- Right to education The right to education is a human right.
- Rights Equality: Girls and boys should have equal rights too.
- Peace over Violence: Dialogue not fight wins change.
- GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY: Every country in the world should collaborate to provide education for everyone.
Critical Analysis
Malala’s speech is emotional as well as logical. She relates personal experience to global concerns. Her decision not to hate, and her belief that change will come through education, is a powerful testament to moral strength. She is hopeful while fearless, encouraging cooperation across the globe regarding education and humanity.
Grammar and Language Notes
Speech Style: Formal, persuasive, motivational.
Tone: Inspirational, non-violent, powerful.
Figures of Speech: Metaphors such as “pen is mightier than the sword” are used to good effect.
Tense Use: Present tense to indicate general truth; past tense to reflect personal narrative.
Conclusion
“Education First” is not just a speech — it’s a rallying cry. Malala Yousafzai, tells the world education is the best hope for justice, equality, and peace. Her bravery and vocalness encourage children to appreciate and stand for their rights through knowledge and love.
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