ECOWAS tackle gender inequality in education

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Education Sector has organised a Virtual Validation Meeting on the Draft Final Report of Feasibility Study on Gender Equality in Education in the ECOWAS Region.

The acting Principal Programme Officer (PPO) Education and Training, ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Aisha Usman, presenting the concept note, drew attention to the fact that getting quality education is key to improving people’s lives and sustainable development, as education is the foundation for breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving gender equality.

Addressing the opening session, the ECOWAS Director, Education Science and Culture (ESC), Prof. Abdoulaye Maga welcomed the experts from the Member States and the strategic partners and conveyed the best wishes of the new ECOWAS Management under the President of the Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, who has, since assumption of office, shown a strong commitment to advance the socio-economic development of the region.

He also conveyed greetings from the Commissioner, Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sarr, who is in charge of the Directorate of Education, Science and Culture.

Consultants, Prof. Aisha Abdul-Ismail and Dr. Marius Totin, presented the draft final report of the feasibility study, which detailed the analysis of gender equality in the ECOWAS region.

The draft contained analysis matrix of mechanisms, strategies, policies, programmes, activities for the promotion of gender equality in education in the ECOWAS member states.

It also discussed prospects and hindrances to achieving gender equality in ducation in the region; and recommendations for sensitisation, advocacy, capacity building, and support to girls and women.

The meeting deliberated on practical ways, different mechanisms, strategies, policies, programs, and activities that will promote gender equality in education.

The meeting also made key recommendations for the successful implementation of the report of the feasibility study, and implementing a communication plan to make girls’ education more visible, credible, and supported by all stakeholders.