How has Women to men parity index, as ratio of literacy rates, 15-24 years old changed in these fifteen countries since 2000?

Goal 2: By 2015 Boys+Girls will be able to complete a full course of Primary Education 

Questions: 1. Of the 15 countries, 80% are found in Africa. What patterns in African societies lead women to be illiterate. 2. Why did the literacy rate improve in all 15 countries during the two time periods observed (2000 and 2008-2011)?