….As CSOs, NGOs call for gender equality
In commemoration of this year;s International Women’s Day (IWD), the Lagos State government has called on women across the world to avail themselves of various opportunities to become empowered, self-reliant, self-confident, even as they strive to attain leadership positions across the globe.
Cecilia Bolaji Dada, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) gave the charge at the 2023 International Women’s Day Celebration, themed: “Cracking the Code: Innovation For A Gender-Equal Future #EmbraceEquity,” in Lagos on Wednesday.
During the celebration organised by WAPA, Dada stated that at the inception of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led-administration, he reiterated his unwavering commitments to implement policies using the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda, which is geared towards economic growth and development through the blueprints of his predecessors, in order to build a progressively Greater Lagos.
Dada said: “Today, we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while acknowledging the ongoing struggle for gender- equality.
“Embracing equity means ensuring that all women, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the same opportunities and resources. It means promoting policies and programmes that address the specific needs and concerns of marginalised women, as well as create a level playing field for all.’
The commissioner advised women, who gathered to celebrate the progress made towards achieving gender – equality and women’s empowerment as instituted by the United Nations on the 8th of March, “to use the opportunity to critically reflect on those accomplishments and strive for a greater momentum towards gender- equality worldwide.”
According to Dada: “Women in Lagos, Nigeria, join the change makers all over the world in a unanimous alliance to prioritise gender equality and indeed embrace equity.
“This particularly showcases the importance of women and girls’ empowerment, even as it evaluates their rights to economic resources, access to sexual and reproductive well-being, as tools for socio- economic growth of every state.
She added, “The International Women’s Day themed: #Embrace Equity, is thought provoking, even as it encourages us to celebrate women’s achievements, raise more awareness on creating opportunities, as well as take actions to drive gender parity.”
The Commissioner urged women to commit themselves to embracing equity in all that they do, added: “Let us work towards creating a world where all women can thrive and fulfill their potential.
“Let us continue to advocate for gender-equality even as we work towards a future where women are valued and respected as equal members of the society.”
She said that “In line with the THEMES Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is making Lagos State a 21st Century Economy, “WAPA has established 20 skills acquisition centres across the state, where no fewer than 20 vocations are being taught free of charge,” she said.
“16,900 students have graduated from the year 2019 till date, most of whom have become employers of labour through the skills acquired and certificates being awarded, which has enabled them to proceed for further education in the state,” she said.
At a related event that took place in Ibadan, leaders of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and some other Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have called for gender equality as a way to correct all the ills in the society.
Speaking as one of the recipients of Distinguished Leadership Award of United Nations Women Leadership Summit and Awards, Prince Leye Adefioye in his remarks at an event held in Ibadan to commemorate the year 2023 International Women’s Day maintained that the gender inequality is an issue that has plagued humanity for centuries.
Pastor Leye Adefioye the President of Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation, a registered child-focused organisation with over 3,000 members and over 25,000 beneficiaries in the state, while speaking on the theme of the event, said, “innovation is the process of creating new ideas, methods or products to improve the way things are done, it is a crucial driver of economic growth and development, as well as social and cultural change.”
“Gender equality on the other hand is the concept of creating equal opportunities for men and women in all spheres of life. It is a fundamental human right and a necessary condition for sustainable development,” he said.
While speaking on innovation and gender equality in education, Prince Adefioye said, “education is a key factor in promoting gender equality, and innovation has played a significant role in improving access to education for girls and women around the world.”
He noted that the use of digital technologies, such as online learning platforms and mobile applications, has made it easier for girls and women in rural areas or conflict zones to access educational resources. Moreover innovations in the design of education materials including the use of gender-sensitive language and inclusive curricula have contributed to reducing gender stereotypes and promoting gender equality in classrooms.”
“Innovation has also contributed to improving women’s health outcomes and promoting gender equality in the health sector, innovation in medical research have helped uncover gender differences in disease prevalence, symptoms, and treatment outcomes. This knowledge gas led to the development of more gender-sensitive diagnostic tools and treatment options, thus improving health outcomes for both and women.”
“Innovation has the potential to promote gender equality in various sectors and contexts, but it also presents some challenges and risks that need to be addressed, to fully realise the potential of innovation in promoting gender equality, it is crucial to adopt a gender – sensitive approach that takes into account the different needs, experiences and perspectives of men and women. We can ensure that innovation contributes to build a more equitable and inclusive society, where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and succeed. Adefioye said.
In their separate remarks, Ambassador Toyin Tolani, Dr. Lola Odeyake Fasida, Comrade Jade Ajibola, Barrister Orbby Vanessa Agwuncha and others called for gender equality among men and women, they stressed that gender equality will make our society a better place for all and sundry.
Other dignitaries at the event include Reverend Dr. Dapo Omiwade, Mrs. Rebecca Ajibola, Evangelist Titilayo Adefioye, the President of Centre for Grassroots Women Advancements and Development (CEGWAD), among others.
- FG moves to secure natural resources, as presidential committee meets service chiefs - January 25, 2024
- Kogi govt pays JAMB registration fees for 15,033 public school students - January 24, 2024
- Edo Guber: APC debunks aspirants screening disqualification rumours - January 24, 2024