In a landmark celebration of the 2024 International Day of Education, the European Union Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria, in collaboration with Plan International, hosted a dynamic one-day event at Chibok Hall in Plan International, Abuja.
The event brought together diverse stakeholders, including representatives from the European Union in Nigeria, Plan International, and youth organizations, creating a platform for dialogue and action focused on “Gender Responsive Education Sector Planning (GRESP) for Peacebuilding.”
The event, which was held at the Chibok Hall of Plan International in Abuja Nigeria, brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from the European Union in Nigeria, Plan International, youth organizations, and more, creating a platform for dialogue and action as participants delved into various aspects of GRESP and its transformative impact on education.
The event started with an insightful analysis of “The State Level Policy Dialogue on GRESP,” an activity under the “Strengthening Civil Society to Enhance Education for All in Northern Nigeria” project funded by the European Union. Panelists, including Atiku Abubakar and Mrs. Jiddere Musa Kaibo, both GRESP Facilitators and Master Trainers, provided a comprehensive overview of the project’s outcomes.
As an educational forum, the gathering highlighted Gender-Responsive Education Sector Planning and its pivotal role in peace-building. Advocacy took center stage, with passionate calls for prioritizing ongoing learning initiatives, especially in marginalized communities, as a cornerstone for fostering peace and stability.
Mr. Laban Onisimus, Head of Social Development Programmes for Plan International, set the tone for the day with an introductory speech, emphasizing the collaboration between the EU Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria and Plan International as a model for effective partnership. The shared commitment to empower youth and promote gender equality in the education sector was underscored.
At the core of this success story is the EU-funded GRESP initiative, redefining education beyond mere access. GRESP stands as a beacon for achieving the vision of SDG 4 – inclusive and equitable quality education for all. The initiative puts gender equality at the forefront through gender-sensitive plans and policies, recognizing that true progress lies in addressing disparities and promoting inclusivity.
The report also highlighted the practical implementation of GRESP, emphasizing ongoing training of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and youth on gender-responsive and inclusive education sector planning. Thirty CSOs (15 per state from Adamawa and Sokoto States) and 20 youths are set to undergo a five-day training program led by the technical team of Plan Nigeria. This initiative builds upon existing gender-centric work, propelling GRESP’s mission to the grassroots level.
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In essence, the EU-funded GRESP initiative catalyzes positive change, shaping the future of education in Nigeria. Through collaboration with the EU Youth Sounding Board and Plan International Nigeria, this initiative empowers youth, fosters inclusivity, and lays the groundwork for a more equitable and peaceful society. The event showcased the transformative power of collective action and strategic partnerships, setting the stage for Nigeria’s brighter and more inclusive educational landscape.
