British Council canvasses gender equality, inclusion as APWEN seeks recognition

The British Council has harped on equipping school inspectors and teacher mentors to achieve gender equality and inclusion within the sector.In a statement yesterday, signed by Marketing Manager, English Programmes and Schools Connect, Sub-Saharan Africa, Nebiyou Worku, the organisation announced a two-day training to enhance gender equality and inclusion in the education system.

He said the initiative is developed under the Schools Connect Programme and modelled for school inspectors and teacher mentors in Lagos State.

Worku noted that by providing participants with essential tools, strategies and insights, the training aims to identify and tackle gender disparities, biases and discriminatory practices that hinder the academic and personal growth of students.

He said: “Gender equality and inclusion are not just ideals, they are fundamental principles that underpin a thriving learning environment. School inspectors and teacher mentors, as key players in shaping educational practices and nurturing educators, hold the power to create a more enriching and equitable classroom experience for all students.

“The two-day training programme will take place through in-person workshops, offering an immersive learning experience from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The British Council’s commitment to fostering lasting change is reflected in the programme’s comprehensive curriculum and delivery approach.

“By equipping school inspectors and teacher mentors with gender-sensitive and inclusive training, the British Council’s Schools Connect Programme is poised to revolutionise education in Lagos State.

The integration of gender equality and inclusion principles into school inspections and teacher mentoring promises to catalyse professional growth, elevate teaching practices, and contribute to an education system that empowers every student to thrive.”

Worku expressed optimism that the initiative would take a significant step towards shaping a future, where education transcends barriers, enabling individuals to harness their potential and positively impact society.

He said the training methodology is designed to be interactive, engaging and practical, adding that participants would delve into real-life scenarios, case studies and group discussions related to school observations and teaching practices.

MEANWHILE, the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Lagos chapter, at the weekend, charged the government to recognise their role in the society, by empowering them to promote sustainable infrastructure development.

New chapter chairman, Mrs. Atinuke Owolabi, who made the call during the association’s public lecture and yearly general meeting in Lagos, submitted that any nation aspiring for development must empower its indigenous engineers.

According to her, it is imperative that homegrown engineers are empowered and granted the right opportunity to showcase their competence. She insisted that the country must deploy local skills and knowledge in the production of technological solutions that address “our engineering and infrastructure needs, rather than solely depending on consumption and the innovations of others.

“We will use this medium to implore the leaders at the sub national level and President of our dear nation to recognise the pivotal roles female engineers can play in nation-building. Female engineers demand that our political leaders challenge us to revamp the nation’s refineries within a year. Engineers are adept problem solvers. We are poised to offer solutions and contribute to the nation’s progress. We are committed to remaining and rectifying the challenges facing our country.”