Int’l Girl-child day: Ekiti boast of highest numbers of school-girls enrollment – Group

Adebayo Adenrele

…as Ekiti Govt seeks societal changes to promote gender equality

A Non Governmental Organisation, Women and Children Development and Health Research Initiative, WCDHRI, said Ekiti State has achieved remarkable efforts in education as one with the highest numbers of girls enrolled in schools.

The Orgnisation made the disclosure in Ado-Ekiti on the occasion of the 2023 International Day of the Girl-Child, organised by WCDHRI, with support from the Ministries of Education, Women Affairs and Social Development and Health, sponsored by Balm In Gilead Foundation, BIGIF and Maternal-Child Specialists’ Clinics, Ado-Ekiti.

According to them, the achievement was attributed to the collaborative efforts of the State Governor, NGOs and stakeholders in raising awareness and ensuring accessible education for the girl-child.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in the State, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, represented by Mr. Tolu Ogunniyi, underscored the critical steps needed to empower the girl-child and eliminate vulnerabilities.

With a focus on this year’s theme, “Investing In Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership and Well-Being,” Mrs. Babafemi highlighted key strategies including access to education, assertiveness and self-defence, creating support networks, promoting advocacy and activism, financial independence, and emphasizing self-care and wellbeing.

“In order to build a future where all girls can thrive, it is crucial to cultivate a supportive environment that encourages girls to take charge of their lives,” stressed Mrs. Babafemi.

She further emphasized the necessity of societal changes that promote gender equality and empower every girl.

Addressing the pressing issue of gender-based violence, Babafemi pointed to the introduction of the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) clubs in schools, and the establishment of the Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence Law in 2019 as pivotal steps in combatting gender-based violence.

Addressing the gathering, the Executive Director of WCDHRI, Dr. Comfort Ade-Ojo emphasized the responsibility of every nation to protect and uphold the rights of every female child.

She urged prioritized investments in the quality and rights of young people, advocating for the active involvement of children in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students of various public and private secondary schools in the Ado-Ekiti metropolis. Women from diverse backgrounds, including academia, public service, politics, security agencies, and industry leaders, graced the occasion, providing motivation and mentorship for the young girls.

Representatives from various organizations including the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists in Ekiti State, Women in Technical Education, Medical Women Association of Nigeria, Organization of Women in Science, and the Federation of Women Lawyers, called upon all stakeholders to champion the cause of the girl-child and actively engage in the fight for their rights.