IFUW was founded in 1919 following the First World War by both British and North American college and university workers who were hoping to contribute to congenial relations between women of different nationalities.
[1][2] Over 100 years later, GWI continues to advocate for women's rights, equality and empowerment through the access to quality secondary and tertiary education as well as training up to the highest levels.
It calls for states to eliminate all forms of discrimination on the basis of gender and sets an agenda for achieving full equality between women and men.
Over its centenary existence, the organisation has managed grass roots projects, done capacity-building and advocated with leaders all over the world in favour of girls' and women's education and empowerment.
[7] In addition to promoting peace, the advancement of careers for women in university formed a major objective for the organisation.
The General Assembly takes place every three years and elects its board of officers, Committee members and Conveners for the next triennium.
The Hegg-Hoffett fund provides small short term grants for refresher courses for re-entry into the candidates' professional field.
GWI carries out advocacy and communications campaigns focused on its mission, as well as projects aiming to strengthen girls' and women's access to education.
GWI's members run grass roots projects providing girls and women with training, mentorship, and skill building.
[5] At every Triennial Conference, GWI passes resolutions urging member organisations to focus on key issues and push their governments for change.
The competitive programme allows women to achieve their dreams of becoming secondary school teachers and to promote girls' education and empowerment.