Tremendous gender equality gains in education have marked the past few decades. Girls, especially those from developing countries, are fast embracing education. Unfortunately, these gains could be fast rolled back for some kids because of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Studies show that more than 70% of students worldwide have been affected by school closure in the face of this pandemic. As you look at the social-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, experiences show that the female gender could be the worst hit. In light of this worrying statistic, this write-up shares some tips to help girls continue their education.
Provide Financial Incentives
It is common knowledge that kids from poor backgrounds rarely make it to school. The economic impact of COVID-19 on families today has places girl and women, in particular, are at a high risk of sexual exploitation, early marriages, and child labor. Cash transfers to needy women could prove vital in helping more girls return to school.
Scale Up Distance Education
Distance learning methods have been proven quite useful during the COVID-19, especially in high-income countries. In light of this fact, countries are encouraged to initiate gender-responsive distance learning approaches to ensure that both girls and boys continue with their education from home. If possible, girls need to be given more attention to address gender disparity.
Mobilize the Community
There is a great need for targeted campaigns to support kids get back to school. While doing this, it is imperative to include communities and caregivers to help girls get back to school. The best way to go about this is to ensure that these messages are contextualized to break societal norms that hold girls from school.
Advocate for Policy Reforms
At times, it’s not just about telling people what to do. Gains in girls’ education also need to be down to some policies. In countries where girls are at a disadvantaged point when it comes to accessing education, policymakers need to develop policies aimed at encouraging the enrollment of girls in school.
There is a need to remove barriers to girl’s education. It is high time that policymakers re-imagine education systems that give girls and boys equal opportunities to learn. Also, there is a great need to mitigate the secondary impacts of this pandemic.
