The Centre for Human Rights and Gender Equality, CHURGE, in collaboration with the Youth Care Development and Empowerment Initiative, YCDEI, recently hosted the 2025 International Women Day’s programme themed “Accelerate Action through mentoring for a gender-equal world.”
In a bid to celebrate the achievement of women and girls who have dared to challenge the status quo, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole Banjo who was represented by the Director of Research and Eternal Relations, Prof. Oladipo emphasized on the importance of empowering Women and girls in the University, advocating gender equality, challenging stereotypes and fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Prof. Adegbenga Onabamiro, the Director of CHURGE in his opening remarks reiterated that the event served as a call to action. He urged the audience to unite in creating a world where women and girls can reach their full potentials.
“As a Centre, we are on the same page with our partners and collaborators in our quest for a more just and equitable society.
We believe that Education is the key to unlocking the potentials of women, and we are committed to providing a platform for their voices to be heard,” he added.
The programme coordinator and Principal investigator, Prof. Adefunke Ekine stressed that Equality is not a privilege, it is a right.
“It takes deliberate action, collaboration and unwavering commitment to transform this right into life reality,” she stated.
On mentoring for a Gender-equal world, the keynote speaker; Prof. Janice Olawoye affirmed that a mentor can make a relationship difference in a person’s career and life.
The erudite Professor further noted that the impact of a mentor’s guidance and wisdom may be delayed but it’s positive effects will inevitably emerge over time.
The colourful occasion was graced by the Registrar, Mr. Dapo Oke; the Senior Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor, Miss Modupe Adetiba, who was also a panelist; the Dean COSMAS, Prof. Folasade Oderinde; the Dean COAHM, Prof Taibat Ikotun; Dean of COSPED, Prof. Modupe Hassan; the Director, CEPPS, Prof Catherine Williams, Miss Bamisaye Loveth from NDLEA, Former Divisional Police Officer, Igbeba Division, Miss Awolowo, and other distinguished guests.
The event concluded with an interactive session between the Panelists and the audience.
Awards and certificates were presented to speakers and mentees.
This celebration serves as a catalyst for positive change, a call to action and a celebration of the incredible achievements of women and girls.