Pics: From Mandela to Malala, Education is the top agenda!

As the world celebrates 95th birthday of South Africa's anti-apartheid hero, Nelson Mandela, we at OneIndia, take a closer look at the commendable work done by Nelson Mandela in the field of education.

Born on 18 July 1918, Madiba, as he is fondly known as, the most prized national figure of South Africa, proved to the world that from the poorest of countries to the richest of nations, education is the key to moving forward in any society.

The revered revolutionary who served as the first black President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, once famously said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

President Jacob Zuma wished the founding father of South Africa by saying, "We wish Madiba a joyous 95th birthday. We are proud to call this international icon our own as South Africans and wish him good health."

Currently admitted in Pretoria hospital since June 8 for a recurring lung infection, Dr Mandela showed signs of steady improvement on his 95th birthday.

Some inspirational quotes that Dr Nelson Mandela said are:

• "The power of education extends beyond the development of skills we need for economic success. It can contribute to nation-building and reconciliation."
• "Young people must take it upon themselves to ensure that they receive the highest education possible so that they can represent us well in future as future leaders."
• "Education is the great engine of personal development. It is through education that the daughter of a peasant can become a doctor, that the son of a mineworker can become the head of the mine, that a child of farm workers can become the president of a great nation. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another."

In the present era, 16-year-old girl, Malala Yousafzai, from Swat valley in the northern Pakistan, has emerged as a 'beacon of hope' in a country, often termed as "failed-state" nation.

Children belonging to the age group of Malala usually spend their extra-time on social networking sites for chatting, playing games, gossiping or in other activities.

But Malala has achieved a lot in her teenage. She has undoubtedly become a global icon, who despite being shot at by the terror organisation Taliban in 2012, didn't stop her noble cause of spreading awareness about education across Pakistan.

The braveheart Malala, had the privilege to deliver her maiden speech at the United Nations (UN) on July 12, that was also celebrated as "Malala Day" worldwide.

In her inspiring speech, Malala stated her view on education as, "Let us pick up our books and pens. They are our most powerful weapons. One child, one teacher, one pen and one book can change the world. Education is the only solution."

Born in 1997, Malala has advocated girls and women to stand up for their basic rights and chosen not to give into her fears, but to overcome them by setting an example.

Young Malala has challenged the Taliban, that has banned girls education and forbids them to attend schools.

Some of the most inspiring quotes of Malala Yousafzai on education are:

• "I don't Mind if I have to sit on the floor at School. All I want is education, and I'm afraid of no one"
• "I dreamed of a country where education would prevail"
• "I want to see the people of Pakistan educated, employed and given their rights"
• "I want education for the sons and the daughters of all the extremists especially the Taliban."
• "Why are the Taliban against education? The power of education frightens them."
  "Islam says that it is not only each child's right to get education, rather it is their duty and responsibility."
• "We call upon all governments to ensure free compulsory education for every child all over the world. We call upon the developed nations to support the expansion of educational opportunities for girls in the developing world."
• "Dear brothers and sisters, we want schools and education for every child's bright future. We will continue our journey to our destination of peace and education for everyone. Because we are all together, united for the cause of education."
• "One child, one teacher, one pen and one book can change the world. Education is the only solution. Education First".

In Johannesburg

A chef and volunteer from Cupcakes 4 Kids with Cancer, raises his hand as he gives the last finishing touch on cakes to form a giant portrait of former president Nelson Mandela. The iconic leader turned 95 on Thursday.

In Johannesburg

Visitors walk past a statue of Nelson Mandela in Nelson Mandela Square at the Sandton City shopping centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. The ailing leader turned 95 on Thursday.

Mandela turns 95

Iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela, who is currently in a hospital with ill health, turned 95 on Thursday.

The ‘Malala Day’ Youth Assembly

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, left, applauds as Malala Yousafzai, right, addresses the ‘Malala Day' Youth Assembly, Friday, July 12, 2013 at United Nations headquarters.

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