The chief executive officer, ZINETH of the girl child and women initiative support ZEGCAWIS, Fatima Kabu, has called for urgent action to address the multiple challenges faced by young girls in Borno State.
Speaking at a press conference held to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, Kabu emphasized the dire impact of recent flooding on girls’ education, alongside other pressing issues such as menstruation-related school absences and financial hardships.
This year’s theme, ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ underscores the need to empower girls and ensure they are equipped for leadership.
However, Kabu warned that this vision could not be achieved if current barriers remain unaddressed.
Kabu highlighted the findings of a recent ZEGCAWIS assessment, which surveyed 640 families in Maiduguri’s Gwange 1, Gwange 2, and Budum communities.
The results were alarming, showing that only 19% of children displaced by flooding had returned to school, leaving 81% the majority of whom are girlsunable to resume their education.
Further complicating this issue, 65% of surveyed families cited a lack of learning materials and financial difficulties as key reasons their children had not returned to school.
Additionally, 21% reported emotional distress, while 14% voiced concerns about the safety of their children in schools.
Fatima Kabu also addressed the issue of menstruation, pointing out that many girls miss up to four days of school every month due to inadequate facilities, further contributing to dropout rates.
She stressed the need for policies that provide safe and supportive environments for girls, ensuring their full participation in education.
COV/BBW
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