In the North Central region of Nigeria, there’s a prevalent belief that Gbagyi girls typically do not pursue education beyond the primary level. Instead, they often remain at home to assist with household responsibilities alongside their mothers and are often married off at a young age. Even among those who do attend secondary school, many ultimately discontinue their education to follow traditional paths of early marriage and Petty trading, mirroring the experiences of their mothers. This pattern perpetuates a cycle of child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and entrenched poverty, exacerbating socio-economic challenges within the community. On this premise, GEAI paid a visit to the Karonmajigi community of the FCT to collaborate with them on our mission and dedication to empowering girls through education. The community stakeholders pledged their support to the cause and agreed to identify beneficiaries/girls who cannot afford to return to school but are looking for the opportunity. GEAI is also set to host Menstrual Health Day and CSE sensitization outreaches in the community.
Another arm of GEAI is the Genderish Podcast Series. The Gender.ish podcast, hosted by Kemi and Nnedi, delves into the pervasive nature of gender stereotypes and their constraining effects on society. Through insightful discussions rooted in personal anecdotes, expert perspectives, and observations, each episode challenges traditional gender norms. By exploring topics such as education, gender equality, violence, leadership, behaviors, and financial independence, the podcast fosters critical thinking among listeners and encourages envisioning a future devoid of stereotypical constraints. Through its engaging approach, Gender.ish empowers individuals to question societal norms and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive world. Some of our uploaded episodes are highlighted in the next slide.
Matilda and Angel Daniel found themselves compelled to discontinue their education due to financial constraints, a narrative emblematic of the stark challenges confronting countless girls for whom education remains an elusive privilege rather than an inherent right. To rekindle their educational dreams, GEAI facilitated the sisters’ return to school, providing them with essential resources and support vital for academic success.
In celebration of women and the demonstration of the benefits of supporting them, GEAI partnered with SEGEI and GLAMODI (conveners of the Purple Ball), and other organizations for the 2024 Purple Ball. The event drew participants from across the nation, particularly from underrepresented communities. GEAI’s founder, Oluwakemi Gbadamosi-Braimah, was the keynote speaker, underscoring the organization’s commitment to championing women and girls’ empowerment and celebrating their invaluable contributions to society.
Attendee testimonials underscored the webinar’s profound impact and enlightenment, emphasizing the critical role of educating the girl child in fostering societal progress and empowerment.
GEAI’s Founder, Oluwakemi Gbadamosi-Braimah, was part of the advisory board that worked to create a global framework for gender-transformative digital skills acquisition alongside members from organizations such as ITU, GSMA, World Bank, Plan International, GIZ, UNICEF, AHF, W4 and E&Y.
The development was led by the EQUALS – The Global Partnership for Gender Equality in the Digital Age