By Michael Olorunfemi Taiwo, Ilorin
A university lecturer and Professor in the department of Management Education at the University of Ilorin, Patricia Agnes Etejere, has emphasized the importance of gender equality in the education sector stressing that meaningful development in education can only be achieved when both men and women are given equal opportunities to contribute and succeed.
Etejere stated this on Thursday while delivering the 298th Inaugural Lecture of the University of the Ilorin held at the Multipurpose Hall of the institution.
Entitled: “Two Wings, One Bird: Why education cannot fly without gender equality”, the event was well attended by people from all walks of life including families and students of the inaugural lecturer.
She noted that, “Just as a bird requires two wings to fly, the education system needs the active participation of both genders to achieve sustainable progress.”
The varsity don advocated for stronger policies and actions that will promote equal access to education for all genders as a pathway to national development.
While proffering solutions and remedies, the educationist recommended the stablishment of gender responsive educational system, institution of gender balance, formulation of gender-responsive policies and integration of gender mainstreaming across all levels of education.
Other recommendations according to Prof. Etejere are; “Robust translation of policies into practice, prioritization of interventions and demonstration and sustenance of political will stressing that all stakeholders should demonstrate and sustain political will and funding commitment to advance gender equality in education.
