Isatou Jallow, Senior Education Officer at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, said the objective of the activity was to raise awareness of participants on Sexual and Gender Based Violence, significanceof Mathematics and Sciences in career development as well as to create a platform for experience sharing and also enhance the reporting and management of Sexual Harassment in schools.
Madam Jallow said that the emergence of Digital Technology compounded the vulnerability of girls in both school and community environments and therefore the need to provide them with vital information relating to sexual harassment.
She added that the training provided participants an alternative for self-employment and income generation.
“The enrolment, retention and completion rates of girls at basic education levels are 82%, out of which a small number of girls specialized in Mathematics and Science related areas,’ she explained.
She challenged parents and guardians to support girls in their career development and training endeavors to become productive members of society.
Mamodou G. Jallow, Regional Education Director attributed gender roles, drudgery on girls, child marriage and lack of interest as some of the challenges affecting STEM education in schools.
Modou Lamin Darboe, Gender Focal Point said the programme will not only accord participants the opportunity to prevent and report sexual harassment and other forms of violence in schools but also ensure they understand the importance of STEM education and Digital Literacy.
He advised participants to take the messages seriously and serve as Ambassadors to schools they represented.
