"Be Intentional To Inspire Others" - Unical VC Urges Women
Hannah ARIKPO
Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Banku Obi has urged women in the State especially those of the University Community to be Intentional in inspiring fellow women.
The VC who was speaking in an annual lecture organized by the Center for Gender Development, Unical as part of activities to mark the International Women day heid at the Senate Chambers of the Institution in Calabar, emphasized, " we must have somebody to inspire us, you are an inspiration to somebody, be Intentional to inspire others, look for another woman to inspire, support one another not to compete.
Gone are the days when we sit down and gossip others, it's no longer business as usual. She outlined the importance of women always coming together as a reminder of working towards the dignity of womanhood and not to be submerged in either marital problems or family issues.
The VC announced with pride that Unical has the highest number of female Professors in tertiary Institutions in the country, which explains the rationale behind more women occupying positions of authority in the University of Calabar.
The Women advocate, vowed to delibrately support the Center for Gender Development, activities as an opportunity to encourage women to excel in their various endeavours.
Speaking, the South - South Zonal Commander, International Organization for Human Rights Development and Environment, (IOHRDE) Commander John Undie stated that the global celebration of women this year was a reminder of the progress recorded and the work that lies ahead in creating a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
According to him, "as inclusion refers to practical or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those with disabilities, minority groups or individuals with different backgrounds, ability or perspectives, let us ensure that there is equal access to opportunities, resources and participation in the society without discrimination."
The Vice Chairman, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) Cross River Chapter, Maureen Ajom, described the theme for the 2024 International Women day, - Inspire Inclusion, as a wake up call for empowerment in diversity, championing equality for a brighter and more inclusive future for all, in order to uplift and support women, commending the Executive Director, Center for Gender Development, Unical, Dr Brenda Akpan for championing the course of women in the journalism profession through the establishment of NAWOJ in the country.
In separate goodwill messages, the State Chief Judge, Justice Akon Ikpeme, Deputy Vice Chancellor- Administration, Prof. Emem Grace Ita among others, expressed opinion that inclusion for women has to be earned urging women to explore the advantages in Education, work on their attitudes, be assertive and available at all times to enjoy Inclusion.
The Executive Director, Center for Gender Development, Unical recalled that the first International day held in March 1911, was initiated by the world renowned Feminist, Journalist and activist, Gloria Steiner who reportedly empasized, the struggle of Women for equality belongs to no other nor organization but to the collective efforts of all who believe in human rights.
She noted that women should be committed to inspire inclusion.
"When Women are not present, we must ask, if not, why not? when women are discriminated against, we must call out and act against poor practices, when the treatment of women is not equitable, we must take action and we must do this each time and every day", Brenda advised.
