A renowned Professor of Sociology and Anthropology at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Prof. Olabisi Aina, has emphasised the importance of gender equality for the development of African countries.
Prof. Aina said gender inequalities are pronounced in Africa’s economic sector, adding that African women are faced with a lot of barriers.
The professor, however, noted that addressing the inequalities is crucial for development as women’s economic empowerment leads to improvements in family health, education, and well-being.
She said governments must implement gender-responsive policies in key areas such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
She made these known on Friday while delivering her valedictory lecture at the Oduduwa Hall of the University.
Professor Aina, while delivering the lecture titled “From the Margin to the Mainstream: Gender and Inclusive African Development,” harped on the need for African societies to embrace gender inclusiveness as a pathway to achieving rapid growth and sustainable development.
She added that considering gender perspectives in inventions and innovations would foster progress across various sectors of African society.
According to her, “Gender inequalities are pronounced in Africa’s economic sector. Women face barriers like limited access to credit, land, and markets and are over-represented in informal, low-paying jobs. Reducing these inequalities is crucial for development as women’s economic empowerment leads to improvements in family health, education, and well-being.
“Gender issues are not about man-and-woman relationships. It’s about dismantling systems that seem to work against women. It’s about creating opportunities for both boys and girls.
“Governments must implement gender-responsive policies in key areas such as education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, ensuring these are comprehensive and relevant to local contexts.
“Africa has made progress in gender and development; persistent challenges remain. Ongoing efforts are needed to integrate gender into policies to achieve sustainable development. Ensuring women’s access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and political participation is crucial for their role as agents of change.
“Investing in women and girls is investing in Africa’s future, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society for all.”
She further clarified that discussions on gender issues transcend domestic roles, stating, “It’s about recognising women’s ability to carry out their responsibilities effectively, whether at home, work, or in other areas of life.”
In his goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Simeon Bamire, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Bola Babalola, praised Prof. Aina for her invaluable contributions to the university community and beyond.
The event also featured the presence of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation, and Development), Prof. Akanni; the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. Odekunle; the Head of the Sociology and Anthropology Department, Prof. Adebusuyi; Bishop Felix Ajakaye of the Ekiti Diocese; and representatives from Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, and Redeemer’s University, Ede.
The three-day program, held from Wednesday, November 20, to Friday, November 22, 2024, commenced with presentations on gender issues and sustainable development in Nigeria.
On the first day, speakers included Prof. Kehinde Taiwo of OAU, Prof. Hauwau Evelyn Yusuf of Kaduna State University, and Dr. Paul Awoniyi from OAU’s Centre for Gender Studies.
The session featured three presentations: An Insight into Causes, Consequences, and Prevention of SGBV (Sexual and Gender-Based Violence), Work-Life Balance, and The Role of the University’s Centre for Gender Studies in Sustainable Development.
Thursday, November 21, 2024, was dedicated to the launch of the book Shifting Sands: Nigeria’s Evolving Gender Landscape, chaired by the former First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Fayemi.
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