Education is a powerful catalyst for change, especially in countries like Nigeria, where gender disparities in access to education have long been a pressing issue. In this context, Women Empowerment Through Education (WETE) stands as a beacon of hope, striving to uplift and empower Nigerian women through education.

The Need to Increase Girls’ Education in Nigeria

Education is a fundamental human right, an agent for growth and one of the most effective means of eradicating poverty and advancing gender equality, health, peace and stability. Every additional year of education results in a 9% rise in hourly wages globally. Additionally, it promotes social cohesion and long-term economic prosperity.

Nigeria, a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse population, has faced several socio-economic challenges, including gender inequality. Historically, women in Nigeria have had limited access to education, due to a patriarchal system, traditional preferences, gender-based violence and child marriage, resulting in restricted opportunities. 

Approximately 13.2 million Nigerian children are not enrolled in school, as President Muhammad Buhari said on January 16, 2020. Nigerian girls account for 60% of this number. This inequality perpetuates a cycle of poverty and vulnerability for many Nigerian women.

When women are educated, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their lives, health and finances. They also have improved employment prospects, contributing to their economic independence and breaking the cycle of poverty. Recognizing this, Women Empowerment Through Education originated to address these issues head-on. 

The Work of Women Empowerment Through Education (WETE)

Women Empowerment Through Education, established in 2015 and registered with the Ministry of Gender Affairs and Social Development, started with a transformative project to change the lives of 11 young women from impoverished backgrounds. Many of them were plucked from villages where they toiled in domestic work and tended to others’ farms for insufficient wages. Under Sr. Dr. Mary Rose-Claret’s guidance, this initiative has become a beacon of hope, offering these women and many more a pathway towards empowerment and a brighter future.

Women Empowerment Through Education is now a multifaceted organization dedicated to empowering women in Nigeria. At the core of its mission, WETE provides comprehensive education and training programs designed to equip women with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the path of their choice. 

Through a diverse set of initiatives, WETE offers workshops that not only build essential career skills but also nurture personal growth and self-confidence. 

Beyond Education: Nurturing Holistic Empowerment

While education is undoubtedly a critical cornerstone for girls’ empowerment, its impact is maximized when joined with a holistic approach that addresses other crucial aspects of their lives. Women Empowerment Through Education recognizes that true empowerment extends beyond the classroom. This organization excels not only in providing education but also in nurturing personal growth, fostering skills development and addressing pressing social issues.

The organization’s commitment extends to a strong emphasis on addressing social issues. The organization offers scholarships to girls who face persecution for their faith, ensuring they have access to quality education by providing scholarships.

In addition, they provide crucial health care services to women in need, prioritizing their physical well-being. WETE also recognizes the pivotal role of women in agriculture and provides vital support, aiding them in becoming more self-sufficient in this sector. Furthermore, the organization extends its compassionate reach to support abandoned children, tackling the grave issue of malnutrition, reflecting its commitment to women’s empowerment and community development.

Women Empowerment Through Education embodies the transformative power of education when coupled with a holistic approach. By addressing not only academic needs but also personal growth, health care and social issues, this organization is shaping a brighter future for Nigerian girls. 

– Hannah Klifa
Photo: Unsplash