Empower, Educate, Elevate: International Women’s Day 2025

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated annually on March 8th to honor the cultural, political, and socio-economic achievements of women worldwide. This day serves as a powerful call to action for accelerating gender equality and addressing the myriad challenges women face globally.
 
The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th century, during a time when women's rights movements were gaining momentum. The first observance occurred in 1908 when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better wages, and the right to vote. Since its recognition by the United Nations in 1975, International Women’s Day has been marked by various events, including rallies, conferences, art exhibitions, and social media campaigns aimed at promoting women's empowerment.
 
This year's theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action—a pivotal framework for advancing women's and girls' rights globally. The theme emphasizes the need for action to unlock equal rights, power, and opportunities for all women and girls, particularly focusing on empowering the next generation of young women and adolescent girls.
 
Education International (EI) recognizes that education plays a crucial role in achieving gender equality and challenging traditional gender roles. EI encourages female educators to serve as role models and mentors, inspiring girls and young women to pursue their aspirations. EI Africa calls on education unions across the continent to demand inclusive and equitable learning environments, highlighting the necessity for governments to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women and girls.
 
Despite progress, only 10 African countries have ratified ILO Convention 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work. EI Africa urges education unions to intensify campaigns for the ratification and implementation of this convention, ensuring that workplaces are free from violence and harassment, particularly school-related gender-based violence.
 
Furthermore, EI Africa calls on African governments to promote awareness about the importance of girls' and women's education, adopt policies that foster gender equality, and eliminate discriminatory laws and harmful social norms that impede social progress.
 
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let us remember the progress made toward gender equality and the ongoing work required to build a more just and equitable society for all.
 
Happy International Women’s Day 2025!
 

[Sat, 08 Mar 2025 20:03:08 +0000] | DIGG THIS


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