ZANEC Calls for Investment in Girls’ Education
Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC) says there is need for the country to ensure that all girls are educated regardless of their ability, social, cultural, and economic status as well as location.
In his message to commemorate the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, which falls on 10th October annually, ZANEC Executive Director, George Hamusunga noted that educating a girl child will not only contribute to national development but also reduce high poverty levels among women, enhance household productivity and financial independence.
Mr. Hamusunga further emphasized the need to invest in the education and well-being of girls as the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will drive social and economic progress.
“The theme for this year which is “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” is reminding us to empower girls, amplify their voices, and support them through progressive strategies and policies that ensure a better future for our Girls.”
“Girl child education is vital to the growth of a nation as they will be well equipped to contribute effectively to the family, community, and national economic development as well as the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030,” Mr. Hamusunga noted.
He further said supporting the vision of the girl child is critical to realizing a future where every girl can reach her full potential and create lasting change in the country.
“It is sad to note that despite, many international declarations, development goals, and the government’s significant efforts to promote girl child education, globally 122 million girls are out of school, and women still account for almost two-thirds of adults unable to read and write.”
“In Zambia, 29% of girls get married before the age of 18, and currently women represent only 14.97% of Members of Parliament an indication that gender disparity in education and key decision-making positions continues to exist,” he stated.
Mr. Hamusunga urged Ministry of Education and all other relevant stakeholders to leverage international instruments and focus on the effective implementation and enforcement of various national policies and laws that safeguard, protect, and promote girl’s rights.
He cited the Children’s Code Act No.12 of 2022, Child Participation Policy, Gender Equity and Equality Act No. 22 of 2015, Anti Gender-Based Violence Act No. 1 of 2011, the Free Education Policy and the Re-entry Policy Guidelines among others, as laws that need effective implementation.
According to the 2020 Education Statistical Bulletin produced by the Ministry of Education, Zambia has 105,700 girls who are out of school as a result of the high drop-out rate.
Additionally, 16,491 girls got pregnant, and only 7,954 were readmitted representing a 48.4% readmission rate.
