Obaseki tasks parents, teachers on girls’ participation in science

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has called on parents, teachers, school administrators and community leaders to prioritise the participation of the girl-child in Science.

Obaseki made the call in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr Crusoe Osagie, on Monday in Benin.

The governor spoke at the commemoration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, marked on Feb. 11, every year, by the United Nations and its partners.

He also decried practices in some communities, which relegate the girl child in the pursuit of knowledge.

Obaseki explained that girls could contribute as much to development, as their male counterparts, if equally empowered.

“With the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EDOBEST) programme, which my administration initiated, we have provided a level playing field for our male and female children to actualise their God-given potential,” the governor said.

He said that several trainings have been organised for girls at the Edo Innovation Hub, to equip them with hands-on skills to participate in the Information and Communication Technology-driven global market.

Obaseki assured that more opportunities would be created for girls by his administration, to enable them take charge of their space and contribute significantly to the nation’s growth and development.

According to the UN, in the past 15 years, the global community has made a lot of effort in inspiring and engaging women and girls in science.

The UN said that despite the efforts, women and girls continue to be excluded from participating fully in the science.

The 2019 theme is: ‘Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth’.