The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat has restated its commitment to addressing the needs of out-of-school children, with a focus on vulnerable girls.
The pledge was made at the graduation of 60 girls from the Stand with A Girl Education Project (SWAGEP), an initiative supported by the Emerging Markets Foundation. The programme, which worked with girls from two Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, provided mentorship, reproductive health education, life skills and vocational training.
Representing the Education Mandate Secretary, Dr Danlami Hayyo, the Director of Special Duties, Ramatu Ajuji Habu, said the Secretariat was expanding access to education through new schools and community-driven initiatives. She added that policies to curb child marriage and ensure girls completed basic education were being implemented.
Executive Director of Stand with A Girl Initiative, Margaret Bolaji-Adegbola, described the transformation of the participants as remarkable. “They began shy and withdrawn, but today they are confident, advocating for solutions and presenting themselves with pride,” she said.
One graduate, 16-year-old Loveth Solomon, who dropped out of school due to financial constraints, said the programme inspired her to continue her education. “Whatever you are doing, do not give up. Keep pushing. Maybe one day, God will help you,” she said.
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