Editorial
FORMER First Lady of Ondo state and Founder of Bemore Foundation, Dr (Mrs) Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and the Vice Chancellor of Dominican University, Ibadan, Professor Jacinta Opara have underscored the important role of technology in empowering young girls.
The duo made their submissions while delivering remarks at the closing ceremony of Bemore Summer Bootcamp in Ibadan, Oyo state earlier today.
Speaking, the Dominican University VC who also doubled as the Chairman of the occasion praised the former First Lady for the ideation of the bootcamp noting that her impact will be felt for generations to come.
Prof.Jacinta went further to say: “This bootcamp has been more than just a series of sessions and activities. It has been a journey—a journey of self-discovery, learning and growth. The Bemore Empowered Girls’ Foundation is Africa’s largest STEM+E (Science, Technology. Engineering, Mathematics and Entrepreneurship) project. The skills acquired here, whether in ICT, renewable energy, science, leadership, or personal development, are invaluable tools that will serve these girls throughout their lives. These skills have not just been taught; they have been embraced, and they will undoubtedly become part of the fabric of each girl’s identity.”
The Dominican VC further encouraged the young girls graduating from the bootcamp to deploy all they have learnt to influence the society positively.
“You are leaving here not only with knowledge but with the power to change your lives and the lives of those around you. Remember, you are the architects of your future. The world is full of opportunities, and with the foundation you have built here, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Continue to be bold, continue to
be curious, and never stop believing in your potential.” She said.
In her remarks, Dr Betty Akeredolu encouraged the graduands to make good use of the tools they have been given and not sell them.
She said, “You have been equipped with tools namely a brand new laptop and a solar home system to facilitate the change process in any area of your choosing, DON’T SELL THEM!. I will be heartbroken if you do! Make good use of them to make your life better. The curriculum of BEMORE bootcamp is designed to make you an income earner as soon as you step out of the camp. SEIZE THE MOMENT!.”
Disclosing the aim of the bootcamp, Akeredolu revealed that her head desire is
to see o ver 3000 BEMORE girls put all they learned to build wealth and become financially independent women.
“I believe it will boost our economy and for the betterment of Nigeria. When a woman is financially independent, there is less spousal abuse that leads to domestic violence. There won’t be need for a BEMORE girl to unleash her taekwondo skills on the husband and peace and harmony will reign in their marital homes.” The former First Lady added.
The closing ceremony also featured an auction of the art pieces designed by the bootcamp participants, a breast cancer awareness talk, exhibition of innovations executed by the bootcamp participants, presentation of laptops and certificates.
Photo caption: L-R: Former First Lady of Ondo state and Founder of Bemore Empowered Girls Foundation, Dr (Mrs) Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and the Vice Chancellor of Dominican University, Ibadan, Professor Jacinta Opara inspecting products and innovations developed by participants in the BEMORE summer bootcamp during the closing ceremony in Ibadan, Oyo state this weekend.
A.I
Sept. 8, 2024
Tags: Dr (Mrs) Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Professor Jacinta Opara
