The Coordinator of the Initiative for Social Impact and Sustainable Development (ISISD) Mrs Funmi Falobi has said many women and girls are still facing marginalisation despite efforts to stem the marginalisation tide.
She made the observation at a one-day capacity-building workshop organised by ISISD in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Journalism on March 8 in Lagos
The workshop which attracted mainly female students, rights groups, and social workers was held to mark International Women’s Day.
Its theme was in line with the United Nations theme for this year’s IWD “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” with the campaign hashtag #InspireInclusion.
Include women in leadership
Falobi said “Women and girls still face marginalisation despite their contributions to the society. Women are doing great in career, business, industry, academics, breaking the glass ceiling but the gap is still wide and there is a need for inclusion of women, especially in leadership positions, politics, and education.”
She argued that society is better off with more women involved in developmental work.
“When we start the inclusion from the young generation and encourage the right spirit of believing in themselves to be the best to attain their full potential, we will be able to address gender inequalities head-on.”She said.
Why the programme
She said the capacity building programme was organised to build the confidence of the female students and propel them to impact society more.
According to her, the partnership with NIJ, a leading journalism institute will further enhance the performance of female students in the school in particular, and the society in general.
Define who you are
At the event, Dr. Ifedolapo Ademosu, a Communication and Sustainability Specialist speaking on “Write Your Own Story” urged the students to define who they want to be.
“Focus on where you are going because the road to success is not straight. Set your goals. Ask the right question and collaborate with people.” she said
Coping with stress
Mrs Oluseyi Olaitan, Chief Nursing Officer, Ifako/Ijaiye General Hospital, Lagos State spoke on “Womanhood: Understanding basic health and mental consciousness,”
She said there’s a need for female students to be able to cope with stress. She urged them not to abuse drugs and further encouraged them to adhere to healthy practices.
“It is true times are hard but make use of the minimal resources available. Drink water, and take fruits. When your immunity is high, your body will be able to fight disease.
From Left, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director Media Career Service, Dr. Ifedolapo Ademosu,,Mrs Funmi Falobi and Mrs Oluseyi Olaitan at the event
Inspire yourself
Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, Executive Director, of Media Career Development Network charged the students to inspire themselves. “You need to inspire yourself. There is no position in the media that women have not occupied. Don’t let anyone tell you women have not done it. Speak up.” he said
Giving tips on proper hair care at the programme, the CEO, of Recare, Mr. Chijioke Anaele, explained that this year’s IWD theme aligns with Nature’s Gentle Touch brands initiative which includes investing in, uplifting and empowering women with skills and knowledge.
Anaele who was represented at the event by Mfon Nkereuwem said the brand was specifically formulated for the Nigerian woman.
“Our state-of-the-art Hair Institute, with a team of seasoned professionals is one of the largest conservatoires of beauty and style education in sub-Sahara Africa. We are always on ground to provide insights into personalized hair/scalp care routines and treatment designed specifically for the health of your hair and scalp,” he stated.
At the event, a student of NIJ, Jimoh Elizabeth Oluwaseyi regaled participants with a performance tagged: “This Wombed-Man Called Woman”
It was a presentation aimed at appreciating the feminine gender.