The Girls Education Mission International, a non-governmental organisation, has decried the difficulties faced by the girl-child in achieving her dreams, particularly in having access to education.
The Executive Director of the organisation, Mrs Keturah Shammah, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that society, especially parents and guardians, should use Children’s Day observance to reflect on their actions and initiate changes.
Shammah said that findings indicate that girls who missed out on education as children often struggled to lead a better, stronger, healthier, and more empowered life as adults or mothers.
She, therefore, underscored the importance of prioritising girls’ education, which she likened to planning for the future development of any nation.
“I especially celebrate the resilience of girl children who in most cases have their big dream impossible to achieve,” she said.
She said that children had the right to education as enshrined in the constitution and urged parents and other stakeholders to respect the right.
“I am using this opportunity to call on parents to rise to their responsibility and recognise the rights of children most importantly their right to education.
“They should ensure that all children have access to the quality education which is a fundamental human right as stated in the Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” she said.
She said that the day should serve as a reminder to the government of its covenant with the Nigerian child as stated in the National Policy on Education, regarding access to quality education.
Similarly, Mrs Fatima Suleiman, the Executive Director of the Islamic Counselling Initiative of Nigeria, called for the protection of children’s rights and the encouragement for them to fulfill their dreams.
Suleiman said that every “child deserves love, respect, and the opportunity to grow in a safe and nurturing environment”.
She called for concerted efforts to build a brighter and more inclusive future for all children.