Funmilayo Oyekanmi, the Executive Director of the Human and Social Sustainability Network (HSSN) Africa, has highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to empower young girls by providing training in STEAM careers, financial literacy, and other essential skills to help them achieve global relevance and prosperous futures. Oyekanmi made this statement during the second edition of the Girl Power Programme (GPP), held to mark the International Day of the Girl Child.
The event took place at Ideal Girls Junior High School in Surulere, Lagos, with over 300 students from the school and Obele Community Junior High School participating. This year’s theme, “Closing the Gender Gap in Poverty Through Early and Gender-Responsive Education,” underscored the importance of addressing inequality through targeted educational programs.
During her address, Oyekanmi noted that the event aimed to equip girls with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in leadership, academic performance, mental health, and self-development. The programme also included a focus on sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and creating safe spaces for students to share personal experiences.
Sandra Nwafor, Program Lead of Girl Power Programme, emphasized the organization’s dedication to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically focusing on poverty eradication, quality education, gender equality, and decent work. She stated that the initiative seeks to prepare girls for the future through transformative education and skill development.
The three-day event featured a series of engaging sessions aimed at fostering academic excellence, financial responsibility, and career exploration in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), empowering girls to break barriers and thrive in diverse fields.