Potchefstroom:The Department of Basic Education has urged increased efforts to foster girls' confidence and leadership, addressing barriers such as gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, and unequal educational opportunities.
According to South African Government News Agency, Basic Education Deputy Minister Dr. Reginah Mhaule emphasized this need during the International Day of the Girl Child commemoration at Die Wilge Special School, Potchefstroom. Under the theme 'Building Confident Leadership for Girls', she highlighted that confidence is essential for girls to participate fully in education and leadership roles, warning of the detrimental impact social pressures can have on their self-esteem and ambitions.
The event attracted around 240 participants, including learners, educators, government representatives, and community stakeholders. It followed a series of learner dialogues and Dove Self-Esteem Project workshops in Potchefstroom schools. Mhaule noted the significance of hosting the event at a special school, emphasizing the necessity of including girls with special education needs in leadership and equality efforts.
Girls face numerous barriers, including violence, harassment, early pregnancies, poverty, and limited access to menstrual health support, which can undermine their educational value. Mhaule also pointed out the negative impact of social media on girls' self-confidence, noting that it often leads to diminished participation and leadership aspirations.
The Department of Basic Education is implementing strategies to create safe, inclusive learning environments through initiatives like the Sanitary Dignity Programme and policies addressing learner pregnancy and school-related gender-based violence. However, Mhaule stressed that community support is crucial in building girls' confidence, highlighting the role of educators, parents, and community figures in fostering belief in girls' potential.
She encouraged girls to recognize their leadership abilities through everyday actions and called on boys to support gender equality. Mhaule also acknowledged partnerships with organizations like UNICEF, the Development Bank of Southern Africa, and Unilever's Dove brand, which contribute to the department's gender empowerment initiatives.
In her closing remarks, Mhaule urged educators to engage girls who have become withdrawn and called for community support to ensure safe school environments. She emphasized the collective responsibility of educators, parents, and community leaders in nurturing a generation of confident girls who can shape their futures and that of the nation.