
By Ayomikun Oluwatimileyin Inawole
In 1995 at the World Conference on Women in Beijing countries unanimously adopted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action – the most progressive blueprint ever for advancing the rights of not only women but girls. The Beijing Declaration is the first to specifically call out girls’ rights.
On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170 to declare October 11 as the International Day of the Girl Child, to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world.
The International Day of the Girl Child focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls’ empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights. This day also encourages girls to dream big, pursue their goals, and contribute to building a more equitable and just world.
The theme for International Day of the Girl in 2024 is ‘Girls’ vision for the future. This theme is a call to action to drive progress with and for girls. Actively investing in girls’ futures is to invest in our own futures. Being a girl shouldn’t determine what you can do, where you can go or who you can become. But right now, that is the reality for millions of girls across the world. Too many are being left behind, confronted by extreme challenges that deny girls their rights, restrict their choices and limit their futures.
In celebrating the day, I interacted with Abu Tessy Osiekafore, the best graduating student in the department of mass communication at Kwara State University, Malate. (Kwasu) She shared her experiences and how it felt for her as a female to be the best of her peers.
“I am really honoured to have achieved this milestone and I give thanks to god almighty, it is actually been a pursuit for me since I began my academic journey, and this recognition means more than just an academic achievement it symbolizes the potential of women in education and serves as prove that determination, hard work and resilience can break any barrier. As a female student, I see it as an opportunity to inspire all the girls to pursue their dreams regardless of societal limitations it also demonstrates that with focus and support, women can excel in any field despite the usual stereotype”.
She also spoke on the theme of this year’s celebration which she described as a call to action for the girl child. “This speaks to me deeply because it is about envisioning a future where girls are no longer restricted by stereotypes, limitations or inequality. It resonates with my belief that every girl should have the opportunity to dream big and pursue her vision without discrimination and personally, it is a call to action for me to continue to advocate for girls’ rights and support initiatives that empower them in education, leadership and their personal development”.
The 2024 theme for International Day of the Girl, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” serves as a powerful reminder and shines a light on the immense potential and creativity that girls bring to the world. As we celebrate this day, we are reminded of the importance of listening to their dreams, supporting their ambitions, and investing in their empowerment. By giving girls the tools, opportunities, and platforms they need, we help shape a future that is not only inclusive but also innovative and resilient. Let us work together to ensure that every girl can realise her vision and contribute to a world where all voices are valued and all dreams are within reach.
Ayomikun Oluwatimileyin Inawole is a 400 Level Mass Communication Student, Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.