In a gathering marked by fervent advocacy and impassioned calls for action, the Africa Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) spearheaded a momentous event focused on the intersection of education and human rights across the African continent. Moderated by esteemed news anchor Andy Kama of QTV Gambia, the opening session set the stage for a dynamic exchange of ideas and strategies to address the pressing challenges facing millions of Africans in accessing quality education.
Dignitaries, commissioners, and activists convened with a shared purpose: to confront the barriers inhibiting education and to champion the inherent rights of every individual. Mrs. Hannah Forster, Executive Director of ACDHRS, underscored the significance of collective commitment in advancing human rights agendas, emphasizing that the protection and promotion of these rights are not solely the duty of governing bodies but a shared responsibility among all citizens.
Poet Jainaba Touray, through her evocative verses, reinforced the intrinsic value of education, highlighting its capacity to nurture independent thinking and thwart exploitation. Meanwhile, Honorable Justice Isatou Jallow-Sey underscored education’s role as a great equalizer, urging stakeholders to prioritize investments in education for sustainable development.
Robert Athewa, representing the Network of African Human Rights Institutions, emphasized the urgency of addressing educational disparities, particularly in rural areas, and advocated for enhanced collaboration between National Human Rights Institutions and governmental bodies.
Honorable Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie, Vice Chairperson of the African Commission for Human and Peoples’ Rights, echoed the sentiments of the gathering, emphasizing the transformative power of education in addressing multifaceted challenges such as poverty and human rights abuses. She called for concerted efforts to confront barriers to education, including the expansion of digital literacy and internet access.
As the ACDHRS celebrates its 35th anniversary, the event stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to advancing human rights across the African continent. With impassioned advocacy and unwavering dedication, participants reaffirmed their resolve to ensure that education remains a fundamental right for all, paving the way for a more just and equitable future for generations to come.
