Advocates from non-profit organisations have called on the Oyo State Government to tackle ongoing gender inequalities that affect access to public primary schools. This issue was emphasised at a two-day workshop in Ibadan to develop Gender-Responsive Education Sector Plans (GRESP) to enhance inclusivity and ensure fair educational opportunities for every child. The workshop brought together media professionals, community organisations, and educational stakeholders to emphasise the need to tackle gender-related issues in the state’s educational framework. Its goal was to provide participants with the necessary insights and resources to promote policies that enhance students’ access, retention, and engagement levels, particularly for young girls.
Non-governmental organisations noted that girls in Oyo State face significant academic challenges due to societal and institutional issues. Among these are cultural norms that undermine the importance of educating girls, inadequate school facilities, and financial challenges that hinder families from supporting their daughters’ academics. The absence of clean and private Sanitation options for girls was noted as a key reason for reduced attendance, especially during their menstrual periods. Parental worries, such as insufficient transport options and unsafe school settings, discourage families from enrolling their daughters, particularly in rural regions.
Teacher equity and media advocacy for academic reforms were emphasised.
Financial difficulties are also crucial, as many households invest in boys’ academics instead of girls’ when resources are limited. These systemic problems worsen inequalities and obstruct progress towards Gender Equality in institutional opportunities. The NGOs emphasised the importance of developing a thorough and inclusive learning strategy to cater to the specific requirements of both boys and girls. An approach that responds to gender issues would ensure that programs, learning content, and the distribution of resources enhance equal participation and results for students. Emphasising an even spread of teachers among institutions and incorporating teaching methods conscious of gender were identified as essential actions to promote a welcoming school environment.
These methods aim to establish learning environments that ensure every student feels appreciated and supported, regardless of gender. Additionally, the need to focus on recently re-enrolled students after dropping out was emphasised. NGOs advocated for specific strategies to maintain these learners’ interest and prevent further dropouts. The media was recognised as a tool for promoting advocacy and facilitating policy reform. By reporting on the sector gaps, successes, and urgent needs, journalists can amplify the voices of marginalised groups and hold policymakers accountable. Leveraging digital tools and platforms can further enhance advocacy efforts, making engaging the public easier, highlighting success stories, and pushing for systemic reforms.
Global partnerships and advocacy can fuel progress in gender equality.
Participants at the seminar stressed the essential role that media practitioners play in influencing societal views and compelling the government to focus on gender fairness in academics. The NGOs urged for prompt enhancements in institutional infrastructures to meet the needs of every gender. These improvements encompass the availability of clean facilities, secure school settings, and dependable transportation to minimise attendance obstacles. Additionally, teachers are instrumental in promoting an inclusive atmosphere. Training them to recognise and address gender biases in the classroom can create an environment where both boys and girls are encouraged to participate fully.
Curricula attentive to gender issues would enhance these initiatives, making academic materials inclusive and empowering for every student. Partnering with global organisations such as UNICEF, UNESCO, and the Malala Fund is vital to tackling school gender inequalities. These collaborations can offer valuable expertise, financial support, and effective methodologies to enhance local initiatives. Ongoing advocacy from grassroots movements and Civil Society organisations is crucial for maintaining the drive for transformation. Highlighting the successes of gender equity initiatives can inspire further action and demonstrate the impact of inclusive academic policies.
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Lastly, addressing gender inequality in education necessitates a comprehensive strategy confronting cultural, systemic, and financial obstacles. By implementing policies that are both inclusive and attuned to students’ specific requirements, Oyo State can lay the groundwork for a fairer educational framework. Such initiatives will enable each learner’s personal growth and promote society’s overall advancement, ensuring every child can succeed. According to the NGOs, education is the cornerstone of equality, ensuring that every child, regardless of gender, is not neglected.