By Victor Gotevbe
This year, the Australian High Commission in collaboration with Pearls Africa Youth Foundation marked the International Day of the Girl Child declared by the United Nations through an event held in Lagos on the 14th of October, 2017 with the theme: “The Importance of Girl Child Education in Nigeria”.
According to the United Nations On Women, “there are 1.1 billion girls in the world, and every one of them deserves equal opportunities for a better future. They are a source of energy, power and creativity. They can drive change and help build a better future for all. Yet, most girls face disadvantage and discrimination on a daily basis, and those living through crises are suffering even more.”
The event brought together girls from different communities in Lagos State who will be mentored through an interactive panel discussion by women professionals who are experts in their various fields of study- within the Arts and Sciences. Reports have it that over 6 million Nigerian girls are out of school. The event raised awareness on possible programs, policies and services that can be developed to meet specific educational needs of the Nigerian girl child.
Pearls Africa Foundation is a Social Enterprise focused on promoting the cause and advancement of vulnerable young girls and women in Nigeria, providing them an opportunity for a greater future through I.T Training, Soft Skills, Skills Acquisition/Vocational Training, Internship and Mentorship. Pearls Africa has a community of young girls and women in (STEM+)field – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, including ethics, leadership skills, self empowerment/development, confidence, public speaking, self esteem which leads to economic independence.
The Australian High Commission, Abuja has funded several projects in Nigeria through its Direct Aid Program (DAP), to promote awareness for the development of children’s education in Nigeria.
