Sage Foundation: How to bridge the education gap for refugee girls

Empowering refugee girls through education is a crucial step towards their empowerment and the future prosperity of their families and communities. According to a report from the UNHCR, refugee girls at the secondary level are only half as likely to enroll in school as their male peers, despite girls making up half of the school-age refugee population. Nazar Alakija, a humanitarian, philanthropist, and founder of the Sage Foundation, discussed the importance of bridging the education gap for refugee girls in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Alakija highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education, stating that many children, especially girls, have been left behind due to school closures over the past 18 months. Children who stay out of school for an extended period are less likely to return, emphasizing the need for access to basic education services. Encouraging parents and families to prioritize the education of young girls is essential for the months and years ahead. The statistics reveal a concerning trend, with a decrease in the percentage of refugee children attending secondary school, especially girls. Alakija noted that families may not see a significant return on investment in sending their daughters to school, leading to early marriages or increased domestic responsibilities. Advocacy efforts are crucial in persuading families to understand the value of educating their daughters and empowering them to achieve their full potential. Challenges faced by refugee girls in accessing opportunities, including education and job prospects, stem from financial constraints within families. Larger families often prioritize boys' education, leaving girls at a disadvantage. Alakija emphasized the importance of advocating for equitable access to education for all children, regardless of gender, and supporting marginalized communities in securing essential services. International organizations and agencies are actively advocating for gender equality and access to education for girls, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated existing disparities. Alakija stressed the importance of maintaining efforts to close the education gap and promote inclusivity for all individuals, irrespective of their background. In her extensive humanitarian work, Alakija has witnessed the transformative power of inclusive societies with equal representation for women. She highlighted the correlation between gender equality, peace, and societal development, underscoring the need to address gender disparities exacerbated by the pandemic. Alakija shared her personal experiences of advocating for child rights in refugee camps, where limited access to resources often leads families to resort to early marriages for their daughters. Lessons learned from Alakija's experiences underscore the importance of advocating for girls' education and securing basic services in marginalized communities. She emphasized the role of both the public and private sectors in supporting initiatives to empower refugee girls through education. Inclusive societies with diverse representation benefit from a wealth of knowledge and experience, driving rapid development and fostering economic growth for countries and continents.