Rahul Bose bats for health and education 'For All'

New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Bollywood actor Rahul Bose, the brand ambassador of Oxfam International, Thursday launched a global health and education campaign 'For All'.

Through the campaign Oxfam international, a non-governmental organisation working worldwide to fight poverty and injustice, would urge for investment for over six million more teachers, nurses and doctors around the world.

Around 4.25 million nurses and doctors and 1.9 million teachers are required globally to provide basic healthcare and primary education to every child.

'As India becomes a stronger global player, it is ironic that we still do not provide schooling or healthcare for millions of our children,' said Rahul at the press conference here.

'The 'For All' campaign is calling not only the Indian government but every government in the world to take the responsibility for providing quality basic services for all citizens. Rich nations too need to increase aid to health and education, where necessary, to help poor countries achieve their goals,' he maintained.

Nearly 100 children joined Rahul at the launch of the campaign. They were attired as doctors, nurses and teachers to symbolise the six million health and education workers needed worldwide.

'People who are delivering healthcare and education against almost impossible odds are required in larger numbers. It is an achievable goal if governments and citizens get behind this call for action. We can change the prospects for millions of children in our lifetime,' said Ben Phillips, Oxfam campaigns and policy manager for South Asia.

The event concluded with the actor and children signing a global petition with a six-feet tall pencil.

'The global petition started today will show leaders around the world that the public demands health and education for all,' explained Ben.

The campaign also supports the 'Wada Na Todo' (Keep Your Promises) alliance in the country and '9 is Mine' campaign demanding allocation of 9 percent of Indian GDP for health and education, as promised by the government.