October 11, a day marked on the calendar worldwide as the International Day of the Girl Child, serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to “Empower the Girl Child.” On this day, we come together to celebrate the achievements of girls, acknowledge the challenges they face, and renew our commitment to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to thrive.
It was first celebrated in 2012 as a way to raise awareness about gender inequality and to advocate for girls’ rights and empowerment. In a world that constantly changes, it is essential to recognise the importance of International Girl Child Day.
This day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of the potential that young girls hold and the imperative of nurturing their dreams and aspirations.
The International Day of the Girl Child is a testament to the global movement for gender equality which emphasizes the significance of addressing gender disparities, discrimination, and violence that still affect millions of girls around the world.
Sadly, girls across the world face so many challenges and obstacles. They often encounter gender-based discrimination, limited access to education, and restricted opportunities.
It is important to know that education plays a pivotal role in shaping a girl’s future. It is her passport to empowerment. When girls are educated, societies prosper. We must reaffirm our commitment to providing quality education to every girl, regardless of her background or circumstances.
Let us remind ourselves that girls are not just beneficiaries of progress; they are the agents of change. Their voices, ideas, and dreams have the power to reshape our world for the better. It is imperative that we listen to them, encourage them, and provide them with the platforms they need to thrive. When girls receive quality education, they gain knowledge, skills, and confidence to shape their own futures. It’s heartening to see progress in many countries, especially Nigeria where girls are increasingly gaining access to schools and pursuing higher education.
Also, we cannot overlook the persistent challenges that hinder girls’ empowerment. Child marriage, gender-based violence, and limited access to healthcare remain serious obstacles. The pandemic has worsened these issues, with disruptions to education and increased economic hardships affecting girls disproportionately.
To truly empower the girl child, we must break down stereotypes and encourage girls to take on leadership roles. Girls have the potential to excel in every field, from science and technology to politics and sports. Their voices should be heard and valued in all aspects of society.
We should also ensure that girls have legal protections and equal rights. Laws must be enacted and enforced to safeguard girls from early marriage, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. Safety is paramount. Girls should feel secure in their homes, communities, and schools.
Gender-based violence and discrimination is a shared responsibility that we must all join hands to eradicate it from our society, this is why the International Girl Child Day always reminds us to be vigilant in creating safe spaces for girls to learn, grow, and prosper.
I would like to use this medium to urge us to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a world where every girl can thrive. It is a reminder that the empowerment of girls is not just a matter of fairness; it is a prerequisite for a brighter future for all.
On this day and every day, let us celebrate the potential, strength, and resilience of girls worldwide, for they hold the key to a more equitable and prosperous world. Empowering the girl child is not just a mere word but a moral imperative. It is the key to achieving gender equality and building a better world. On this day and every day, let us empower the girl child for a better future.
Zaynab Abubakar, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri
