This year’s focus was on addressing the pressing issues girls face, particularly in the West Nile region.
In commemoration of International Day of the Girl Child, Plan International Uganda hosted an experiential “Girls Takeover,” spotlighting the challenges facing girls in crisis.
This year’s focus was on addressing the pressing issues girls face, particularly in the West Nile region.
The event featured a visit to the UNHCR offices, where young girls like Lyete Mary, Betty Ibaila, and Sarah Koji stepped into leadership roles, with Mary sitting in as the country representative.
The key issues raised included the lack of access to sanitary pads, high school dropout rates, and difficulties in school enrollment.
During a meeting with UNHCR board members, solutions to these challenges were discussed.
UNHCR’s country representative expressed gratitude for the girls’ courage and assured continued support, emphasizing that it is not an easy job, but they are committed to helping people help themselves.
“This has brought so much life to us as UNHCR, and we look forward to working with our partners to support refugees, including girls, across the country,” said UNHCR Deputy Representative, Jason Hepps.
The girls highlighted the critical need for scholarships, particularly for upper secondary education.
UNHCR responded by reaffirming its commitment to providing access to scholarships and working with other institutions to close the gaps.
They also stressed the importance of enhancing refugee well-being, especially for female refugees, through community-based interventions and increased employment opportunities.
The takeover aimed to strengthen coordination and accountability, ensuring that more girls have access to education and representation in the country’s development.
This initiative reinforces the need for collective action to empower girls.
