The International Day of the Girl Child falls on October 11, highlighting the needs and challenges girls face today. There are many societies where the girl child is regarded inauspicious and unwelcome. In many parts of India, the girl child is considered a burden due to the evil practice of dowry.
The day reminds us that between boys and girls there is nothing that makes one superior to the other. An educated and skilled girl is as equipped and qualified as an educated and skilled boy. Therefore, women should be provided all opportunities that man get. The UN reports that millions of girls are either denied jobs or are employed in jobs that earn them low or no pay. Many of them face bias, abuse and exploitation at work. Nations should be able to expand existing learning opportunities for girls, chart new pathways for them and rethink how to prepare them for a successful transition into the world of work.
The UN has marked the beginning of a year-long programme to draw attention to the most pressing needs and opportunities for girls to attain skills for employability under the theme, ‘With her: A Skilled Girl-force’.
Picture Credit: Google