Shakira addresses Oxford dons

Shakira took to the stage at Oxford University yesterday to discuss world politics.

Shakira took to the stage at Oxford University yesterday to discuss world politics.

In her speech to the Oxford Union, the singer, who was born and raised in Columbia, said she believed education was the key to breaking poverty.

The ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ singer revealed: “That is how I want the youth of 2060 to see us: That our mission for global peace consisted of sending 30,000 educators to Afghanistan, not 30,000 soldiers.

“That in 2010, world education became more important than world domination.”

She added: “I strongly believe that the best is yet to come. I cannot subscribe to the idea that the older days were better days.”

After her speech Shakira chatted to students and happily signed autographs. She admitted it was incredible to be given the opportunity to address the prestigious UK university.

She said: "To be standing right there on the stage where so many other important social and political figures have spoken in the past - it was just a great honour."

Shakira set up a charity, the Barefoot Foundation, when she first had international chart success.

The foundation helps build schools and community centres as well as providing food for the needy.

She said: “We have the resources to feed the people several times over, but why are children starving? We need to find more ways to distribute food. And education is our ticket.”

more courts articles

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson arrives at court to face sex charges
Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court Case against Jeffrey Donaldson to be heard in court
Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody Defendant in Cobh murder case further remanded in custody

More in this section

Smartwatch with health app. Glowing neon icon on brick wall background Health watch: How much health data is healthy? 
Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future
(C)2024 Disney. Disneyland Paris – Disneyland Hotel Re-Opening Watch: Iconic Disneyland Paris hotel re-opens after two year renovation
ieParenting Logo
Writers ieParenting

Our team of experts are on hand to offer advice and answer your questions here

Your digital cookbook

ieStyle Live 2021 Logo
ieStyle Live 2021 Logo

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Discover the great outdoors on Ireland's best walking trails

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Lifestyle
Newsletter

The best food, health, entertainment and lifestyle content from the Irish Examiner, direct to your inbox.

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited