GPFN, BASE, Hold Media Roundtable On Girl-Child Education, Gender Based Violence In Kaduna

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: The Global Peace Foundation, Nigeria ( GPFN), Back- to- school Educational Initiatives (BASE) and Nigeria Union Of Journalists, ( NUJ) Kaduna state council, had a media roundtable discussion on Girl child Education and Gender- Based violence in public schools in Kaduna.

The one Day event which held on Tuesday at the NUJ Secretariat of the NUJ, attracted, CSOs, Media, NGOs, and peace stakeholders amongst others.

Speaking, the Country Director, Global Peace Foundation, Nigeria, ( GPFN), Rev. John Joseph Hayab, said the round table is centred on the need for the girl child education and the disturbing surge of gender based violence in our public schools.

” lt is an honor to stand before you today to discuss two critical issues that deeply affect our society—the education of the girl child and the alarming rise in gender-based violence in our public schools.

” Education is the most powerful tool for breaking cycles of poverty and empowering young people to build a better future. Yet, across Kaduna State, many girls in Senior Secondary School 3 (SSS3) face the heartbreaking reality of being unable to sit for their NECO examinations simply because they cannot afford the fees.

”  This financial barrier is forcing many bright and hardworking students to drop out at the final hurdle of their secondary education, limiting their opportunities and deepening inequalities.

” I want to commend His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, for his passion and significant strides in transforming the education sector in Kaduna State. His administration has shown a clear commitment to improving access to education by reinstating the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) fees—a policy that had been discontinued by the previous administration.”

According to him, this bold step demonstrates his dedication to ensuring that no child is left behind due to financial hardship. However, while the government has commendably allocated a budget line for these external examination fees, it is crucial that the funds are released immediately. Delay in disbursing these funds will mean that thousands of students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, may miss their examinations this year. We cannot afford to let this happen.

“:I therefore use this platform to appeal directly to the Kaduna State Government to prioritize the immediate release of funds to sponsor NECO examinations for SSS3 students. This is not just a matter of policy—it is about the future of our children and the economic growth of our state. Education is an investment, not an expense.

” When we educate a girl, we educate a family, a community, and a nation. But when financial constraints deny a child this opportunity, we all bear the consequences. If we truly want to see sustainable development in Kaduna State, we must remove every obstacle that prevents our children from accessing quality education.

” Through the Rise Up Project, Global Peace Foundation Nigeria and Back to School Educational Initiative have conducted in-depth research to understand the root causes of school dropout among girls in Kaduna State. Our findings revealed that poverty, the government’s previous withdrawal of SSCE fee payments, and the harassment of girls in schools are the major factors pushing young girls out of school. In response, we have taken concrete steps by mobilizing community support to amplify these issues and demand action.” he added.

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He further noted that the prevalence of gender-based violence in our public schools is alarming and requires an urgent attention. Girls should not have to choose between education and safety. Schools must be safe spaces where they can learn, grow, and thrive without fear of harassment or abuse.

”  I call upon the Kaduna State Government, school administrators, and relevant stakeholders to implement strong policies and accountability measures to prevent and address GBV in our schools. Every girl deserves an education free from fear, intimidation, or exploitation.

‘ The media plays a vital role in shaping public discourse and holding leaders accountable. I urge our distinguished journalists and media practitioners here today to continue amplifying the voices of these young girls and advocating for policies that prioritize their education and well-being. We must keep this conversation alive until concrete actions are taken.

He however pointed out that the event is not just about discussions; it is about action. ” We must collectively push for the immediate release of examination fees to ensure that no child in Kaduna State is forced to abandon their education due to poverty. 

” We must also work together to create safer schools for our children. Governor Uba Sani has taken commendable steps toward improving education in Kaduna State. Now, we urge him to complete this process by ensuring that the necessary funds reach those who need them most—our children.”

He further maintained that with a strong leadership, community support, and media advocacy, we can build a Kaduna State where every girl can complete her education, free from financial hardship and fear. Let us act now. Let us demand change. And let us ensure that every child’s right to education is upheld.” he reiterate

In his remarks, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kaduna State Council, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe, said issues for the roundtable required concerted conversation.

 ” As we gather to discuss the pressing issues of Girl Child Education and Gender-Based Violence in Kaduna State schools, I want to emphasize that these issues are not only moral imperatives but also essential for the socio-economic development of our state and nation.

” Education is the greatest equalizer, and for girls, it is a powerful tool for breaking the cycles of poverty, inequality, and violence. However, in Kaduna State, we still face significant challenges in ensuring that girls have access to quality education. From cultural and societal barriers to poverty and lack of infrastructure, the obstacles are numerous.”

He maintained that, the scourge of Gender-Based Violence in our schools is a stark reminder of the dangers that our girls face daily. No child shouldn’t feel safe in school, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our schools are safe spaces for all.

” As media practitioners, we have a vital role in shaping public discourse and holding policymakers accountable. I urge you to continue amplifying the voices of girls and women, highlighting their struggles, and demanding action from our leaders.

” To our policymakers, I say that the time for action is now. We need policies that prioritize girl child education, address the root causes of Gender-Based Violence, and provide support for survivors.

” To our communities, I say that we all have a role to play. We must challenge harmful cultural norms, support girls’ education, and create safe spaces for all.

” Together, we can create a Kaduna State where every girl has access to quality education, and every school is a safe haven. Let us work together to make this vision a reality.” he stressed.