NGO Raises Concerns Over Escalating Gender Disparity in Education

She underscored Nigeria's unfortunate position as having the highest rate of out-of-school children globally, attributing this alarming statistic to various factors including poverty, insecurity, limited access to education, cultural barriers, and substandard education quality.

Jan 26, 2024 - 14:10 Updated: Jan 26, 2024 - 15:00

NGO Raises Concerns Over Escalating Gender Disparity in Education

Gem Hub Initiative, a prominent non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to addressing human capital development needs in Nigeria and Africa, has expressed alarm over the country's escalating gender disparity in education. During a press briefing in commemoration of World Education Day, Mrs. Oyeyemi Pitan, the Executive Director of Gem Hub Initiative, revealed alarming statistics highlighting the challenges faced by girls within the education system.

Mrs. Pitan emphasized that the out-of-school rate among girls is a staggering 60% higher than that of boys, signaling a critical crisis that demands urgent attention. She underscored Nigeria's unfortunate position as having the highest rate of out-of-school children globally, attributing this alarming statistic to various factors including poverty, insecurity, limited access to education, cultural barriers, and substandard education quality.

Highlighting the profound consequences of this gender disparity, Mrs. Pitan emphasized that out-of-school children are more susceptible to remaining trapped in poverty cycles, being vulnerable to recruitment into armed groups, and hindering national development efforts.

In light of these challenges, Mrs. Pitan called for swift and concerted action to address the deep-rooted gender disparities in education. She outlined key commitments for government intervention, including the importance of research, teacher motivation, addressing insecurity, and collaboration with stakeholders to implement effective recommendations.

Mrs. Pitan urged stakeholders to seize World Education Day as a catalyst for change, committing to ensuring inclusive and quality education for all, which is essential for lasting peace and national development. She emphasized the collective responsibility of leaders to act with compassion, foresight, and integrity in addressing the urgent educational needs of Nigeria's youth.

Gem Hub Initiative's advocacy underscores the critical importance of addressing gender disparities in education to foster equitable opportunities and contribute to sustainable development in Nigeria.