The Secretary for Education Associate Professor Mangani Chilala Katundu delivered a powerful address during the 9th High-Level Meeting on Gender Equality in Education at the African Union Headquarters. Katundu emphasized on the urgent need for equal access to quality education for all girls and boys, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced in achieving gender parity in education across the continent.
Katundu began his speech by acknowledging the critical nature of the conversation surrounding gender equality in education, welcoming attendees and celebrating the efforts of the African Union’s Continental Education Investment Fund for African Women (AU CIEFFA). He proudly reported on Malawi’s recent launch of the AfricaEducateHer# Campaign, initiated at Buke Primary School in Balaka District, which aims to promote girls’ education with the support of various civil society organizations including Oxfam, CAMFED, CRECOM, and FAWEMA.
Despite these advancements, Secretary Chilala Katundu pointed out that gender disparities in education persist, with significant barriers still hindering access for both genders, particularly among girls. He cited alarming issues such as poverty, gender-based violence (GBV), and discriminatory practices that contribute to educational inequalities. “Education is a fundamental human right and essential for achieving gender equality,” He declared, referencing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
During the dialogue, the Secretary for Education called for collective actions from member states to combat the root causes of gender inequality in education. He proposed several strategies aimed at addressing GBV and creating safe learning environments, including enhanced guidance and counseling services for victims and increased community engagement, particularly with traditional leaders.
He urged all member states to prioritize gender equality in educational policies and practices, congratulating countries that have implemented laws against child marriage, which significantly undermine girls’ educational opportunities. “We must ensure that girls not only stay in school but also succeed academically, becoming empowered decision-makers for the future,” he asserted.
As the event unfolded, numerous stakeholders participated in discussions aimed at sharing best practices and identifying key challenges in promoting gender equality in education. The Director of Higher Education, in the Ministry of Higher Education Dr. Levis Eneya among the senior officials attending the continental indaba.
