SPEAKERS CALL FOR URGENT ACTION AGAINST CHILD MARRIAGE AND GREATER INVESTMENT IN GIRLS AT LASU OWSD EVENT
The Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Lagos State University (LASU) Branch, has called for concerted efforts to end child marriage, tackle gender discrimination and remove barriers to girls’ education, stressing the need to protect their rights and expand their opportunities to shape their futures.
The call was made on Wednesday, 21st October 2026, at a programme organised by OWSD, LASU Branch, to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child. Held at the Africa Centre of Excellence for Innovative and Transformative STEM Education (ACEITSE), Main Campus, Ojo, Lagos, the programme was themed “My Rights, My Voice, My Future: Empowering the Girl Child", in line with the global theme, " End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights".
The event brought together female students of Lagos State University International School (LASUIS), Ojo, and DAMVIC Academy, Badagry, for discussions on child marriage, personal well-being, education, mentorship and career development.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olawunmi BADEJO, FCASSON, FAPROCON, MNAE, Professor Yomi BELLO, of the Department of Music, Faculty of Arts, described child marriage as a social and developmental challenge that undermines girls’ education, health, safety and economic independence. She called for stronger enforcement of relevant laws, sustained public enlightenment and collaboration among parents, community leaders, policymakers and civil society organisations to safeguard girls’ rights and eliminate the practice.
Reaffirming LASU’s commitment to education as an instrument of social transformation, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the importance of investing in quality education, healthcare, counselling and economic opportunities to prepare girls for leadership and professional careers. She urged stakeholders to promote gender equality and ensure that every girl, irrespective of her circumstances, has the opportunity to realise her potential.
“As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our commitment to ending child marriage and investing in every girl child. For when we protect a girl, we protect our future, and when we educate a girl, we empower a generation,” she said.
The Chairperson of OWSD, LASU Branch, Professor Omolade OKWA, in her welcome address, described child marriage as a public health, educational and human rights concern that deprives girls of education and limits their prospects. She highlighted the role of universities in shaping values, building confidence and equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and guidance required to thrive. Professor OKWA encouraged the students to pursue their ambitions without allowing gender to limit their aspirations, while urging stakeholders to protect, educate and mentor girls so that they can learn, lead and contribute meaningfully to societal development.
The Guest Speaker, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of MedConnect Pharmacy, Pharm. (Mrs) Julianah MICHAEL, underscored the importance of providing girls with access to education and healthcare while building their confidence to make informed decisions about their futures. She noted that practical interventions, including the payment of examination fees, the provision of school uniforms and mentorship, could help prevent financial hardship and exploitation from disrupting girls’ education.
Addressing the students, Pharm. (Mrs) MICHAEL urged them to take responsibility for their health, remain committed to their studies and recognise that their present circumstances do not determine their future achievements. She also encouraged organisations such as OWSD to strengthen collaboration between families and professionals to provide sustained support for vulnerable girls.
Earlier in the programme, the Dean, Faculty of Science, Professor Anthony OJEKALE, represented by Professor Moses AKANBI, in his address, commended OWSD for its efforts to advance girls’ education, empowerment and protection. He highlighted the contributions girls could make to societal development, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as well as in leadership. He urged the students to embrace innovation and pursue their aspirations without fear of discrimination, while calling on parents, teachers and other stakeholders to provide the guidance and opportunities they need to succeed. He also reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where girls’ voices are heard and their achievements are celebrated.
The programme featured interactive sessions on issues affecting girls and the opportunities available to them. A Deputy Registrar in the Counselling Unit of the University, Dr Bukola OYEDIJI, spoke on “Understanding Child Marriage and Its Impact on Girls”, while Dr Funmi OMETAN delivered a mentorship and career talk titled “Avoiding Distraction and Investing in Yourself: Education, Career and Future”. Dr Azeezat ALAFIA, represented by Dr Kafilat AJELARA, also engaged the students on STEM and career awareness, highlighting opportunities for girls in science and related professional fields.
The programme reinforced the need for sustained action beyond annual commemorations to protect girls’ rights, support their education and broaden their choices. Through advocacy, mentorship and engagement with young students, OWSD, LASU Branch, continues to promote a future in which girls are empowered to make informed choices, pursue their aspirations and participate fully in societal development.
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