By Khalid Idris Doya Stakeholders in Bauchi State have called for the effective implementation of policies that strengthen dig...
By Khalid Idris Doya
Stakeholders in Bauchi State have called for the effective implementation of policies that strengthen digital learning and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education as a strategic approach to curbing gender-based violence (GBV), promoting disability inclusion and enhancing women’s economic empowerment across the state.
The call was made yesterday in Bauchi during a high-level advocacy and partnership forum themed "Institutionalising STEAM for GBV Prevention, Disability Inclusion and Women’s Economic Empowerment."
The forum was organised by the Girl Child Values Support Initiative (GCVSI) with support from the French Embassy Fund (FEF) and CSOs Progress Partners.
Participants at the forum agreed that institutionalising STEAM education is critical to building safer, more inclusive and economically empowered communities in Bauchi State.
Speaking at the event, the Gender Desk Officer of the Bauchi State Ministry of Education, Ms. Mary Ishaya, stressed the need for deliberate and sustained policy implementation to strengthen STEAM education in schools.
She called for the provision of well-equipped science laboratories, the integration of GBV education into school curricula, participatory budgeting, and empowerment programmes that would enable girls and women to thrive economically.
Also speaking, the Gender Desk Officer of the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APWDs), Ms. Sylvia Abah, emphasised the need for adequate funding and sustained awareness campaigns to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in education and economic opportunities.
She noted that inclusive policies would significantly reduce vulnerability to violence and social exclusion among persons with disabilities.
On his part, the Director of Science, Technical and Vocational Education, Mr. Bashir Aliyu, expressed the Ministry of Education's support for the initiative, describing it as a significant step towards reducing GBV and promoting skills development among young people in the state.
Representing civil society organisations, Ms. Abigail Hardor underscored the need for intensified advocacy and awareness creation, particularly in rural communities where GBV remains prevalent.
She stressed the importance of challenging harmful social norms and cultural practices that hinder gender equality, inclusion and sustainable development.
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