Save the Children International Calls for Educational Equality in Yobe
Save the Children International (SCI) has called for increased investment in girls’ education in Yobe State, Nigeria, as part of the global commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11.
Mr. AbdulWasi’u Ogunbeni, the Advocacy and Mobilisation Officer for SCI in Yobe State, emphasized the importance of empowering girls through education.
He noted that cultural norms often hinder girls’ access to education and limit their potential.
“This day is dedicated to raising awareness and creating sensitization around the challenges faced by girls in accessing education.
“We need to urge governments to prioritize girl child education,” Ogunbeni said.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts to establish girls’ day senior secondary schools in the state, Ogunbeni expressed concern over the ongoing challenges faced by girls in accessing education.
He highlighted the link between early marriage and deprivation of education, which negatively impacts girls’ health, education, and overall well-being.
To address these challenges, SCI invited successful women from various fields to share their experiences with young girls. The aim was to inspire the girls to pursue their education and career aspirations.
Hajiya Fatsima Hassan, the Director of Women Affairs in Yobe State, confirmed that many girls in the state previously discontinued their education after junior secondary school due to a lack of senior secondary schools.
However, she commended the state government under Governor Mai Mala Buni for establishing additional girls’ senior secondary schools.
Hassan emphasized the positive impact of these new schools on girls’ education and encouraged parents and guardians to support their daughters’ educational pursuits.
