On the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child 2016, the Ministry of Gender and Family has today, given girls the opportunity to step into the shoes of leading female professionals in the Maldives. A total of 27 girls of ages 16 & 17 participated in this special initiative to support girls’ empowerment and leadership. The Ministry organised this one day programme to provide a unique experience of a full working day attached to remarkable female professionals from various fields from the Government, private sector and the media. The main aim of this initiative is to empower and motivate girls to achieve their goals and aspirations and to become tomorrow’s leaders at decision making levels in various fields.
A special event was also held at the Ministry at the end of the working day, to give participants the chance to share and exchange their experiences. Speaking at the event, Minister of Gender and Family, Hon. Zenysha Shaheed Zaki expressed hope that through this initiative, young girls were able to get a better understanding of the importance of promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. She also highlighted that she hoped to see today’s young girls making a positive difference in the Maldives, as tomorrow’s mentors and leaders.
Certificates of participation were also awarded to the students at the event. The Ministry wishes to thank the Maldives National University, MAPS College, Villa College, MI College and Cyryx College for their support to this initiative and assistance in selecting interested students.
The International Day of the Girl Child has been observed on the 11th of October every year following a United Nations resolution in 2011, and focuses on promoting the rights of girls and addressing the unique challenges face by girls globally. This year’s theme is “Girls Progress = Goals Progress: What counts for Girls”.
11 October 2016