By: Puseletso Maqoaelane
Mohale’sHoek – The International Day of the Girl Child was celebrated with great enthusiasm in Mohale’s Hoek Phamong, focusing on the importance of girls’ rights and the creation of a supportive environment for their growth and development under the theme “Empowering Girls for a Brighter Future.”
The event provided essential hygiene kits to the girls, including pads, toothbrushes, bath soap, and other personal care items, ensuring that girls have access to necessities that promote their well-being.
This celebration was organized by Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso in collaboration with World Vision Lesotho, the Ministry of Education and Training, and the local community. The event was purposed to raise community awareness about girls’ fundamental rights and the importance of nurturing an environment that smoothly fosters their development.
Professor Ntoi Rapapa, the Minister of Education and Training (MoET), mentioned that more than 48% of young girls become school dropouts because of early marriage, recounting the significance of education in empowering young women.
The celebration addressed critical issues such as early marriage and low enrollment rates among girls. MoET Minister delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing how it is unacceptable for under 18 aged girls 18 to be married. This message resonated deeply, underscoring the importance of education as a tool for empowerment.[U1]
Professor Ntoi called upon community members to actively support girls in their academic pursuits, stressing that education is vital. “We must work together to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to succeed and to reach her full potential,” the Minister stated.
World Vision Director, James Chifwelu Nkema has announced plans to implement strategies aimed at protecting children from abuse including child marriage, emphasizing the need for urgent action to safeguard children’s rights.
Rets’elisitsoe Lepolesa, a representative from Bethel High School, also took the stage to address the boys in attendance. He urged them to refrain from bullying girls, instead to protect them, especially during their menstrual cycles.
His message emphasized the importance of mutual respect and understanding among peers, aiming to foster a more inclusive environment for all students.
Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso encouraged young girls to remain steadfast in their faith and to work diligently towards their goals. She reminded them that education is a powerful tool that can change their lives and the lives of their families.
“Remember, education is your gateway to a brighter future,” she stated. Her Majesty urged the girls to stay focused and to embrace their potential as future leaders of their communities.
The event concluded with performances and speeches that celebrated the resilience and strength of girls in the community, reinforcing the message that investing in girls’ education and rights is essential for the progress of society as a whole.
Overall, the International Day of the Girl Child in Mohale’s Hoek is a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by girls and the collective responsibility to ensure their rights are upheld.
The community left the event with a renewed commitment to support the growth and empowerment of young girls, paving the way for a brighter future for all.
[U1]How od education and underage marriage relate?