The Kwara State Government has unveiled its policy on Gender in Education and its implementation guidelines to promote equal educational opportunities, address gender related barriers and strengthen inclusive learning across the state.
The policy was unveiled by the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development in collaboration with the Kwara State Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project in Ilorin.
Lawal Olohungbebe Ph.D, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, described the unveiling as an important step towards ensuring equal educational opportunities for every child in the State.
He acknowledged the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and his administration’s commitment to educational development, particularly initiatives affecting girls’ education.
“The success of this policy will depend not only on its official unveiling but also on our collective commitment to its effective implementation.
“I therefore encourage all relevant stakeholders to take ownership of the policy and work together to translate its provisions into practical actions and measurable results.
“As we officially unveil this document, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that gender does not become a barrier to access, participation, retention, or achievement in education,” he stated.
The Commissioner, who was represented by Rebecca Bake Olanrewaju, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, commended the State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) and everyone who contributed to the domestication of the document.
Adeshina Salami, the Kwara AGILE Project Coordinator, explained that the policy was adapted from the national framework to reflect the peculiar needs and circumstances of the state.
Salami noted the domestication process was necessary so that the national policy could be effectively implemented within Kwara State’s education system, even as he described the launch as an exercise in ownership.
He stressed that, when everyone commits to the policy and does their part, it becomes harder for any girl to be left behind, adding that, “by the end of today, we want more awareness of this policy, clearer understanding of roles, and a positive commitment to gender responsive education.”
He explained that the process was facilitated by the project’s System Strengthening Sub Component, 3.1, with Development Options Consulting Limited as the implementing partner. He said the company, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Olatunji Awoleye, supported the adaptation of the document.
According to Salami, the policy is designed to guide educational planning and service delivery, ensuring that learners of all genders have access to educational infrastructure, facilities and opportunities for improved learning outcomes.
He added that its implementation would cover all levels of education, from primary and secondary schools to tertiary institutions.
Lawal Hamzat, Deputy Project Coordinator of Kwara AGILE, who also doubles as the System Strengthening Lead, highlighted the importance of the policy in strengthening the sustainability of educational interventions and supporting government efforts to address challenges affecting learners.
He noted that it provides a strategic framework for improving educational access and participation, while addressing gender based violence and other barriers that may stop learners from reaching their full potential.
Education stakeholders at the event commended the state government and the AGILE Project for the initiative, and urged them to sustain their efforts towards improving educational opportunities and outcomes across the state.
