US Mission stresses girl children empowerment healthcare, skills
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Education of girls and young women to empower them to make meaningful contribution to and lasting impact on society has again been stressed by the United States Mission, saying this is the key to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer Joe Kruzich reiterated the point when the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos hosted 100 schoolgirls from across Nigeria to mark the International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC).
The event, held in collaboration with the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Alumnae Association of Nigeria (AWEAAN), highlighted the importance of girls’ empowerment through increased access to education, healthcare, and skills.
IDGC focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote their empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.
With the theme on “Our time is now, our right, our future”, the event provided the high school girls the opportunity to learn about emotional intelligence, how they can harness their skills, identify career choices and opportunities to study in U.S. colleges and universities.
Kruzich disclosed the U.S. government works closely with partners and civil society organisations to help girl children live free from gender-based violence, learn new skills, and become future leaders.
“To achieve our collective goal of creating a peaceful and prosperous world, we must help ensure all girls are educated, healthy, and safe so they can participate fully in the social, economic, political, and cultural life of their communities,” he said.
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Programmes for women and girls
He described the variety of U.S. government programmes such as TechGirls, TechWomen, and Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) that prioritise and empower girls and young women so they can thrive and succeed and make a long-lasting positive impact on their own future.
Kruzich stressed girls and women’s empowerment and integration are key to Nigeria’s long-term economic development.
“Societies in which girls are enabled to be full and free participants are safer, more secure, and more prosperous.”
He commended AWEAAN for their commitment to supporting the next generation of girls and women by connecting them with networks and opportunities to advance their careers and dreams in diverse fields.