The Commission reaffirms that the realization of the right to education contributes to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, human rights, sustainable development and poverty eradication. The Commission notes with concern the lack of progress in closing gender gaps in access to, retention in, and completion of secondary education, which is key to the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls and the realization of their human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as enabling other positive social and economic outcomes. All women and girls must therefore enjoy access to lifelong learning opportunities and equal access to quality education at all levels, including early childhood, primary, secondary and tertiary education and technical and vocational training.