Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan delivered a speech at the Global Education First Initiative event at the United Nations in New York on Sept 26, 2015. [Special coverage]
Beyond her title as China's first lady, Peng Liyuan is known for the worthy causes she participates to help others and benefit the society. Peng was given the official certificate of designation that made her the sixth person - and the first Chinese - to be made a UNESCO special envoy in 2014.
Youth education topped the issues Peng Liyuan cared about. In the past 10 years, she submitted proposals about education for youths in rural areas, youth cyber safety and AIDS orphans' mental health.
Young people need good education because it is not only about giving them knowledge and skills but also helping them become responsible citizens, Peng said.
She said many years ago, her father made a small difference in his village by teaching the children to read. She followed his steps and became a professor of music.
Calling for more educational resources in poverty-stricken areas, she said education is about equality.
Peng especially called for educational support in rural areas. She proposed the government should not only waive rural students' tuitions but also consider providing medical subsidies to their families.
She also stressed the importance of education for women and girls. As a mother herself, she understands how important education is for women as they are the first teacher of their children, Peng added.
She said she hopes all the children, especially girls, can have access to good education, and that is her Chinese dream.
Irina Bokova, UNESCO's director-general once said that he hoped "the voice of Peng can help bring positive changes to China as well as the world and to play a leading role in the effort of promoting education worldwide".
