Stakeholders have called for the effective implementation of policies that strengthen digital learning to curb gender-based violence (GBV) in Bauchi State.

They said the call was imperative to advancing inclusion and enhancing women’s economic empowerment.

Mary Ishaya, gender desk officer at the Bauchi State Ministry of Education, said this at a high-level advocacy and partnership forum on STEAM education on Monday in Bauchi.

The theme of the forum is “Institutionalising STEAM education for GBV prevention, disability inclusion, and women’s economic empowerment.”

The forum was being organised by the Girl Child Values Support Initiative (GCVSI) with the support of the French Embassy Fund (FEF) and CSO Progress Partners.

Ms Ishaya underscored the need for deliberate policy implementation to strengthen STEAM education in the state.

She said institutionalising STEAM education remained critical towards building safe, inclusive and economically empowered communities.

“The provision of well-equipped science facilities, integration of GBV education into school curricula, participatory budgeting and empowerment programmes will enable girls and women to thrive economically,” she said.

Sylvia Abah, gender desk officer, Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APWDs), emphasised the importance of adequate funding and sustained awareness campaigns to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities in education and economic opportunities.

She noted that inclusive policies would reduce vulnerability to violence and social exclusion.

Bashir Aliyu, director of science, technical, and vocational education at the Bauchi State Ministry of Education, described the project as a significant step towards reducing GBV and promoting skills development among young people in the state.

Also, Abigail Hardo, representing civil society organisations, stressed the need for intensified awareness-creation activities at the grassroots.

She said it was important to address harmful norms and cultural practices impeding gender equality and inclusion to achieve sustainable development.

(NAN)