The First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki and Commissioner for Education Edo State, Dr. Joan Oviawe were among the high profile dignitaries at the celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day(IWD) organised by the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy(JOOPSA).
The event which centered around the theme ‘Inspire Inclusion: Empowering Women in Public Service through Inclusive Leadership,’ drew women from various sectors within the state and beyond.
During this year’s IWD celebration at the JOOPSA women from diverse sectors were urged to actively contribute to societal development. JOOPSA’s Director General(DG), Precious Ajoonu, emphasized the importance of the event in fostering collaboration and progress among women.
In her address, Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, inspired women to play essential roles in the advancement of their homes and country. She emphasized the significance of understanding one’s worth and values for achieving higher positions in the society.
The keynote speaker, Professor Yinka Omorogbe(SAN) a renowned Professor of Energy Law, delved into the theme, ‘Empowering Women through Inclusion: Female Leadership in Public Service.’ Professor Omorogbe referenced the Edo State scorecard 2024, shedding light on the challenges hindering women from attaining leadership roles in the public sector.
The event transitioned into a dynamic panel session featuring prominent figures such as Permanent Secretary of Edo State Ministry of Digital Economy, Science, and Technology, Igbinomwanhia-Naps Abieyuwa, environmentalist and Global Youth Ambassador, Favour Eragbie, Peacemaker and lead table turner at Pathfinders Justice Initiative, Emokhare Alex, and JOOPSA’s DG, Precious Ajoonu.
Discussions revolved around inspiring inclusion in public spaces and the importance of mentorship. International Women’s Day, celebrated worldwide every 8th day of March, serves as a day to recognize women’s achievements, transcending divisions of nationality, ethnicity, culture, economics, and politics.
