The Worldwide Organisation for Women Africa Incorporated (WOW) has called for an increased allocation of resources towards the advancement of girls’ education, health, and overall well-being.
The organization emphasizes the pivotal role of these initiatives in fostering a more just and prosperous society for all.
This appeal was made during WOW’s 4th annual debate celebrating the International Day of the Girl at the ASUBEB hall in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
During her address, Ngozi Chukwujekwu, the Chairperson of the debate planning committee, emphasized the importance of disseminating knowledge to women within the community.
She acknowledged the vital contributions of Carol Ugochukwu, Founder and CEO of WOW Africa Inc., and Attorney Amaka Ada-Akudinobi, the organization’s Executive Director, for their unwavering support for marginalized individuals.
“The International Day of the Girl, celebrated annually on October 11, raises awareness of the challenges and barriers faced by girls globally.
This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” encourages stakeholders to attune their ears to girls’ aspirations and seek their input in shaping a better world.
The debate featured four notable schools competing on pivotal motions regarding the investment in girls’ education and sustainable development.
Dr Ngozi Ozoh, a lecturer in English Literature at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, served as the keynote speaker, asserting that the future belongs to those who dare to dream.
She encouraged girls to break free from societal constraints that have historically limited their educational and professional aspirations.
Noting that traditional gender roles have often relegated certain fields as male-dominated, she emphasized the need to empower girls to pursue their interests fearlessly.
Dr Ozoh delved into the expectations placed upon girls and the profound impact they have on their self-esteem and ambitions.
“Girls with dreams become women with vision,” she highlighted the transformative power of education as a cornerstone of empowerment.
“UNESCO estimates that 130 million girls worldwide are out of school, which stunts both individual and national progress. Investing in girls’ education brings remarkable societal returns,” she stated.
She urged governments and stakeholders to prioritize education funding and remove gender-based barriers to schooling.
She called for collaborative efforts to establish robust legal and support frameworks aimed at protecting the girl child.
The Executive Director of WOW Africa Inc., Attorney Amaka Ada-Akudinobi, who was represented by Ethel Eruchalu, urged students to hold fast to their self-worth and empowerment, reinforcing the crucial role girls play in societal change.
“Empower a woman with knowledge, and you empower generations to come,” she stated.
She reiterated the importance of the Beijing Declaration established in 1995, which focused on advancing girls’ rights globally.
She emphasized that as we approach this year’s International Day of the Girl, we must amplify the voices and challenges faced by girls everywhere.
The Lead Teen Advisor, Zara Ilona said, “Being a girl transcends harmful stereotypes; it encompasses the strength and resilience of young women around the world. A girl embodies resilience, having risen above the limitations set upon her.
“Girls are intelligent, navigating their emotions with both heart and mind. They confront fear with courage. Women serve as homemakers, therapists, advocates, and educators—fundamental pillars of society. They inspire pride that resonates deeply across cultures, demonstrating the power and potential of girlhood everywhere.”
The event featured sixteen secondary schools in Anambra State, illustrating the broad participation and engagement within the community.
Lantana Nasir
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