Leaders must help stop abuse of girls

EVERY child has the right to education, yet there are many barriers to learning, particularly for girls and the most vulnerable.

Worldwide, 262 million children and youth, of whom 130 million are girls, are denied education.

This is due to gender discrimination, disability, conflict, natural disaster and a lack of government spending.

I strongly believe structures and systems that disadvantage and stop girls and children from learning and getting prepared for a dynamic and unknown future should be eradicated. Some girls are exposed to early marriages and forced marriages. Some experience horrific genital mutilation.

It can be extremely dangerous and can cause severe pain, shock, bleeding, infection such as tetanus, HIV and hepatitis B and C, organ damage and blood loss. Politicians and religious leaders should use their influence to educate society on the health and psychological effect of this genital mutilation.

HANDSEN CHIKOWORE | Human rights activist