CHAI and YABATECH Celebrate 2025 International Day of the Girl Child with Empowerment Drive
By DAYO ADESULU | October 2025 | Lagos, Nigeria
The Child Health Advocacy Initiative (CHAI), in collaboration with the Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), hosted an inspiring programme to commemorate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child under the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead.”
The event, held at the YABATECH campus, brought together students, educators, gender advocates, and development partners to advance girls’ empowerment through education, health awareness, and leadership development.
Girls as Today’s Change Makers
In her keynote address, Dr. Elizabeth Lola Alonge, Founder of CHAI, described girls as intelligent, creative, and capable of shaping their futures when given access to the right opportunities.
“Girls are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are changemakers today,” she said.
Dr. Alonge highlighted CHAI’s mission to build confidence and capacity in young girls through mentorship, education, and personal development. She announced the launch of a new mentorship programme designed to guide female students in making informed academic and career choices.
Focus on Menstrual Health, Nutrition, and Digital Literacy
The sessions at the event focused on menstrual hygiene, adolescent nutrition, and digital literacy—key areas essential for the physical, mental, and professional growth of young women.
Guest speakers led engaging discussions on health, nutrition, and technology empowerment, encouraging participants to apply their knowledge for community impact.
Dr. Alonge also presented copies of her latest book, Small Business Success Handbook, to outstanding students and announced lifelong sponsorship awards for two top-performing GESP trainees.
“Your dreams are valid. You have the right to learn, to lead, to create, and to shine,” she told the girls.
YABATECH Reaffirms Support for Girls’ Education
Dr. Funmilayo Doherty, Director of the Centre for Grants and Research Support, YABATECH, praised CHAI and GESP for promoting girls’ education and leadership.
“When a girl is educated and confident, she becomes a force for transformation that uplifts everyone around her,” she said.
Dr. Doherty added that YABATECH remains committed to equipping young women with education, leadership skills, and self-confidence to lead impactful lives.
A Celebration of Strength and Hope
The event also featured mentorship introductions, interactive discussions, and the presentation of goody bags to all participants as a show of appreciation and encouragement.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Alonge reaffirmed CHAI’s long-term commitment to investing in girls’ education, mentorship, and health across Nigeria.
“Strong girls become strong women, and strong women build strong nations. When a girl rises, the world rises with her,” she concluded.
The programme ended with enthusiasm and renewed determination among participants to continue championing the education and empowerment of the Nigerian girl child.
🟢 About CHAI
The Child Health Advocacy Initiative (CHAI) is a non-profit organization focused on promoting child and adolescent health, education, and leadership development across Nigeria.
🟣 About GESP, YABATECH
The Girls’ Education and Skills Partnership (GESP) is an initiative of Yaba College of Technology aimed at empowering young women through skills training, mentorship, and leadership development.
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- Dr. Elizabeth Lola Alonge addressing students at YABATECH during the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child event.
- Participants engaging in mentorship and leadership sessions organized by CHAI and GESP.
- Group photo of CHAI team, YABATECH staff, and students celebrating girls’ empowerment.
