The pound;1.4billion commitment to the worldwide drive to get every child into primary school by 2015 represents a welcome act of global leadership by the UK Government. But effective universal education depends on more than just money. It also requires aspiration among those who are to receive it and encouragement for those who provide it. Pupils and teachers in developing countries need the moral and practical support of their peers in the developed world - who in turn gain a wider global perspective from such contacts.

A number of UK schools have already experienced the mutual benefits to be derived from links with schools and communities overseas. And there are still opportunities open this year for 50 teachers to spend their summer holiday in Africa, supporting colleagues in rural schools and making a dramatic difference to the lives of others - and their own. See www.lcd.org.uk.