Agency
The Katsina State House of Assembly has promised to ensure a bill seeking 35 per cent women participation in the education sector is enacted.
The assembly members gave their assurances at a one-day meeting supported by UNICEF, with the High Level Women Advocacy in Kano on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the bill, sponsored by HILWA, has already passed second reading at the assembly which involved public hearing.
The Speaker of the house, Alhaji Nasir Yahaya-Daura, who chaired the meeting, said the lawmakers were committed to actualising the passage of the bill.
“We recognise that investing in the education of our girls is an investment that will bring rapid development in our dear state. Our commitment goes beyond mere words.
“That is why the current state legislature remains committed to enacting laws that will boost the girl-child enrollment in schools.
“On the issue of gender representation in governance, I am pleased to inform you that both the state government and the legislature are in support of the policy.
“We want to assure you that as soon as the committee presents its report, we are going to pass the bill without further delay,” he assured.
Yahaya-Daura assured of the assembly’s continued support to HILWA by enacting bills that will increase women participation in education and good governance.
The HILWA Chairperson, Hajiya Mariya Abdullahi, said prior to the establishment of HILWA, gender equality had made little progress in all fronts, especially in the north.
She decried that there had been no access to education by women in decision making positions.
“It’s our strong belief that effective participation of women in providing education will be a very critical strategy in girls education programmes.
“When more women participate in influencing decisions on policies and practices in the education sector, learning conditions will be more favourable for girls and even the boys.
“Also, more women in the sector as teachers, head teachers, local government education secretaries will directly and indirectly provide opportunities and encourage more girls to enroll and complete their education.”
Mr Michael Banda, UNICEF’s Officer in charge of Kano Field Office, said the aim of the 35 per cent target on women participation was to motivate and inspire girls to develop more interest in school.
According to Banda, “That alone can contribute to improving the girl child enrollment in school, retention and also completion.
“Nigeria already has an existing national gender policy, but not being practised.
He said the policy was formulated to promote 35 per cent affirmative action for women, and also demanded involvement of women in all governance processes.
(NAN)
