A Non-Governmental Organisation dedicated to promoting human rights and gender equality, Invictus Africa, has taken a significant step towards addressing the obstacles behind gender inequality in education and its budgets across government entities.
On Thursday, the organisation hosted a one-day training workshop on Gender-Responsive Education Budgeting Guide at Maidugu Guest Palace in Gombe, bringing together various stakeholders including the media.
The workshop aimed at discussing the curricular aspect of the education system relating to Gender-Responsive Education Budgeting, with a focus on promoting human rights and gender equality through data-driven advocacy.
Speaking, Bukky Shonibare, Executive Director of Invictus Africa, emphasised the importance of engaging with relevant stakeholders to achieve this goal.
Shonibare highlighted the release of a baseline assessment on Gender-Responsive Education Budgeting, which focused on Oyo and Gombe states. The comprehensive evaluation examined the scope, activities, content, efforts, and aims of GREB, providing valuable insights into the current state of education in both states.
The assessment identified key areas of concern, including education performance, school enrollment and retention rates, WAEC performance, and state-specific challenges that hinder access, retention, and completion of basic education for girls and boys. Shonibare stressed the need for gender-responsive education budgets to address these challenges.
Gombe State Commissioner for Education, Dr Aishatu Maigari, acknowledged the assessment presented by Invictus Africa and highlighted the state government’s commitment to improving education at the primary level and prioritizing women’s education across the state. She noted that the state government has already implemented programs to address these issues.
Resource person Iniobong Usen led an informative session on Education Budgeting, Budget Monitoring, and the importance of gender equality in responsive education. The session provided participants with practical knowledge and skills to advocate for gender-responsive education budgets.
The workshop brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from the state Ministries of Women Affairs, Budget and Economic Planning, Health, Information, and civil society groups. This collaborative approach ensured a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting gender equality in education.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that through this initiative, Invictus Africa has demonstrated its commitment to addressing the systemic barriers that perpetuate gender inequality in education. By engaging with stakeholders and providing data-driven advocacy, the organization aims to create a more inclusive and equitable education system that benefits all.
