The BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation has equipped 70 girls in Ibadan with laptops and home solar systems to promote both education and sustainable energy. This initiative—led by Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu—aims to empower young women and highlight the role of home solar systems in tackling energy challenges.
The Link Between Poverty and Gender-Based Violence
With home solar systems gaining attention as a viable solution to Nigeria’s energy challenges, the BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation took a significant step on Saturday by empowering 70 young girls in Ibadan. The initiative, led by Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, wife of the late former Governor of Ondo State, is part of the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote girls’ empowerment. Each participant received a laptop and a home solar system, opening up new opportunities in both education and sustainable energy.
During the closing ceremony of the Summer Bootcamp, Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu addressed the crucial connection between poverty and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). She emphasised that empowering girls with knowledge and tools like laptops and solar systems can significantly reduce the effects of feminised poverty. She also pointed out that when women and girls are financially independent, they become less vulnerable to violence at home and in society. This empowerment is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and violence.
Home Solar Systems and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu also highlighted the importance of aligning the Foundation’s work with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopted in 2015, these goals serve as a blueprint for achieving peace and prosperity for people and the planet. Home solar systems directly contribute to several SDGs, including affordable and clean energy, climate action, and quality education. By providing these systems to the girls, BEMORE is addressing multiple goals simultaneously. She expressed concern over the lack of awareness about the SDGs, despite Nigeria having government offices focused on them. In response, BEMORE has made it a priority to educate participants about the SDGs, making it a recurring theme in its bootcamp programmes since 2017.
Encouragement for the Girls to Share Their Knowledge
Dr. Anyanwu-Akeredolu urged the bootcamp participants to share the knowledge and skills they gained with others who were unable to attend. The home solar systems they received are more than just personal tools; they are symbols of the shift toward a more sustainable and empowered future for young women in Nigeria.
Prof. Jacinta Opara, Vice-Chancellor of Dominican University and Chairperson of the event, encouraged the girls to take full advantage of the opportunities provided. She reminded them that they are the architects of their own futures and that the skills they acquired—including knowledge of home solar systems—can open doors to limitless possibilities. Prof. Opara’s message was clear: with the right tools and education, these girls can contribute to the development of Nigeria and the world at large. She also stressed the importance of renewable energy solutions, like home solar systems, in building a sustainable future.
The BEMORE Empowered Girls Foundation’s initiative to provide 70 young girls in Ibadan with laptops and home solar systems marks an important step toward a more sustainable and empowered future. By equipping these girls with the tools they need, BEMORE is fostering a generation of young women capable of making a positive impact on their communities and the world.
