Ekiti Government Adopts Gender Policy to Promote Inclusive Education

Ekiti State Government has launched a gender policy on education to promote inclusive, equitable and quality education for all learners.

Speaking at the unveiling of the state policy on gender in education, the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji said the policy represents a milestone in the state’s commitment to building an education system accessible to every child regardless of gender.

Oyebanji represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Peju Babafemi noted that education remains a powerful tool for transforming lives. She stressed that it must be available to all children without discrimination or barriers rooted in gender bias, cultural stereotypes or economic limitations.

The First Lady explained that the policy goes beyond mere intentions by outlining key steps for implementation, including gender-responsive teaching practices, improving learning environments and promoting data-driven decision-making in the education sector.

She added that the initiative would ensure equal access to quality education for boys and girls, increase enrolment, reduce dropout rates and create safe learning spaces free from discrimination, harassment and harmful stereotypes.

She further described the policy as a potential game changer that would bridge gender gaps, eliminate disparities and empower both boys and girls, leading to improved socio-economic growth and development.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr Bimpe Aderiye, described the policy as a strategic framework designed to address systemic inequalities and ensure that no child is left behind in the state’s education system.

She said the initiative aligns with global best practices and reinforces the state government’s resolve to make education a level playing field for both boys and girls.

Aderiye noted that the policy would not only improve access but also retention, adding that deliberate efforts are being made to ensure that children who enrol in school are supported to complete their education.

The Ekiti State AGILE Coordinator, Dr. Yewande Adesua, said the policy aimed at boosting school enrolment and domesticating the national gender policy in education. She added that it is built on the belief that education remains a powerful tool for societal transformation and equity.

She commended Governor Oyebanji’s vision and strategic leadership, expressing optimism that the policy would eliminate barriers and reposition the state as a leader in human capital development.