IN a declaration of support for the empowerment of women and girls, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello min, NPOM, the Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), emphasised her pivotal role in fostering an inclusive society.
Her remarks came during the Year 2024 International Women's Day Programme, a collaborative effort organised by the Centre for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (CRPSGBV), the Organisation for Women in Science for Developing World (OWSD), the LASU Chapter, and Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA).
Held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the Aderemi Makanjuola Hall at the main campus in Ojo, Lagos, the event carried the theme "Count Her In: Invest In Women, Accelerate Progress." Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, who is the second female Vice-Chancellor of the esteemed institution, expressed her pride in her position and underscored the imperative of empowering women and girls as the cornerstone of societal advancement.
In her address, Prof. Olatunji-Bello, represented by Prof. Adenike Boyo, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration, outlined the multifaceted approach required for empowerment, including access to quality education, equitable opportunities for growth, gender-inclusive parenting, provision of safe environments, and economic empowerment.
She assured attendees of LASU's unwavering commitment to the safety and security of its female students, actively combating harassment and fostering an enabling educational environment.
Dr Igot Ofem, Acting Director of CRPSGBV, expressed gratitude to event partners for their instrumental support, emphasising the importance of commemorating the historical achievements of women and inspiring confidence in young female students and staff.
Meanwhile, Prof. Omolade Okwa, Chairperson of OWSD, shed light on the organisation's efforts in supporting women and girls in science, acknowledging the collaborative contributions of partners to the event's success. Dr Esther Somefun, a Gender/Reproductive Health Analyst from UNFPA, highlighted the indispensable role of women and girls in sustainable development, advocating for comprehensive investment in their social, economic, and political inclusion.
On her part, Dr Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, CEO of Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre & Specialist Hospital and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Women in Health Outreach, underscored the significance of International Women's Day in recognising women's achievements and promoting inclusivity. She also stressed the importance of female representation in leadership and decision-making spheres.
The event culminated in a panel session featuring professionals and experts discussing various facets of women's empowerment. Notable partners of CRPSGBV, including TAFTA, UNFPA, Emzon Pharmacy (Wonder Girl Sanitary Pads), and Forever Living Products, contributed significantly to the event's success.
The programme garnered substantial attendance and was hailed as a resounding success, affirming the collective commitment to advancing the cause of women and girls in society.
