By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
EFFORTS TO empower girls in overcoming societal barriers and becoming future leaders took center stage at a recent event hosted by Kebetkache Women Development & Resource Centre.
The event, held to mark International Day of the Girl Child, was themed “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” with the aim of helping young girls build the confidence needed to achieve their dreams.
Participants from four schools, including Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS) Orominieke, Community Secondary School (CSS) Rumunduru, Chrips Education Centre, and Samsoty International School, gathered at Kebetkache’s headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
They were encouraged to defy the cultural and educational limitations traditionally imposed on women.
The NGO has made it a priority to create a safe space for girls in the Niger Delta, pushing for their inclusion in decision-making processes and providing the resources needed to foster their growth.
Speaking during the event, Linda Ntam, Project Officer at Kebetkache, highlighted the historical struggles women have faced, stating that many girls are still held back by societal norms, family pressures, and unequal opportunities in education.
“We want to change that narrative,” she said. “This is why we focus on mentoring these girls to equip them for a brighter future.”
Teachers and guest speakers emphasized the importance of education and self-belief as tools to shatter stereotypes.
Esther Chibuzor, founder of Raising Creative Authors, motivated the students by encouraging them to embrace their unique potential and reject feelings of inadequacy.
“You are enough as you are. Upgrade your brain and focus on what you want to achieve,” she said.
In addition to motivational talks, the students were educated on pressing environmental issues affecting their region, including climate change, gas flaring, and oil spills.
It also served as a platform for young girls to share their visions for the future, express concerns, and take steps toward self-realization.
One participant, Modesty Romanus from Samsoty International School, reflected on how the event reshaped her thinking. “I’ve learned not to look down on myself and to believe in my abilities,” she said.
Jahdiel Kinikanwo of Chrips Education Centre expressed her gratitude, saying, “This programme has taught me the power of girls and the importance of contributing to society.”
Benson Ugbana-Awaji of GGSS Orominieke shared that the event encouraged her to stay focused on her vision of becoming a doctor.
The day’s event wrapped up with the female participants feeling empowered and ready to take charge of their futures, armed with the knowledge that they, too, can make an impact.
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