Girls must learn to take control of their lives

Targeted action is needed to provide girls with life skills, including education on sexual and reproductive health and emotional well-being, speakers said at a programme yesterday.

The discussion, on “Experience Sharing and Consultation” was organised by the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (DSHSE) and Room to Read Bangladesh at Bangla Academy, marking International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated on October 11.

At an early age, a girl should develop self-esteem and learn to take control of her life and make decisions, speakers said.

Discussants also said girls lack access to vocational training, apprenticeships and other job training programmes, which are crucial for developing skills and useful in emerging job markets and value-added activities.

At the programme, six girls shared their concerns over child marriage, sanitation problems in schools, and job prospects.

Secretary to Women and Children Affairs Ministry Nasima Begum said, “Girls' participation in sports has left a significant mark in the international arena.” The government has taken an initiative to teach karate to girls as a self-defence skill, while different apps were developed for them, she said.

Prof Shamsul Huda, director general (in-charge) of DSHSE, said, “We are considering opening counselling centres for girls at schools in Dhaka city.”

Kazi Rowshon Akter, DG of Department of Women Affairs, said girls should be given livelihood skills.

Rakhi Sarkar, country director of Room to Read, said, “Keeping girls in school and ensuring they can learn in a safe environment leads to benefits to the girls themselves, their families and society.”