Fatshimétrie: Education and emancipation of Congolese girls
On the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child celebrated on October 11 of each year, Fatshimétrie had the privilege of speaking with Madeleine Mwadi, prefect of the Nkamu Institute of Lemba in Kinshasa. The topic discussed: the challenges faced by parents in the education of girls during adolescence.
Adolescence, a key period in the life of every human being, is particularly important for young girls. It is a time when their identity is shaped, when they face social pressures and when they discover their bodies. Adolescent crises can be sources of significant conflict between parents and daughters, but also opportunities to strengthen family ties through dialogue.
Adolescent girls, during this phase of their development, encounter multiple difficulties. These include gender stereotypes, limited access to education, early marriages and cultural expectations that can weigh on their aspirations. These obstacles can hinder their full personal and professional development, making this period a crucial moment for their future.
Congolese parents, for their part, must face various challenges to help their daughters flourish fully. Between cultural stereotypes, social pressure for their academic and marital success and the lack of resources and awareness in managing adolescent crises, parents often find themselves helpless.
The management of these crises by parents can vary. Some adopt an understanding approach and dialogue with their daughters, while others favor an authoritarian attitude, which can exacerbate conflicts. It is crucial to equip parents so that they can better understand the challenges of adolescence and thus manage these crises more adequately.
To better manage these crises, it is essential to encourage open and caring communication between parents and children, especially girls. Listening without judgment, supporting their autonomy and creating spaces for exchange and sharing can contribute to better support for young girls during this crucial period.
Schools and communities also have a role to play in supporting parents in this task. By organizing information sessions and valuing young girls, they can contribute to their emancipation and better management of their development.
Initiatives such as educational programs focused on the personal development of girls, mentoring actions and scholarships can be put in place to improve the situation of young girls in Congo. Raising awareness in society about the importance of gender equality and encouraging girls to believe in their dreams and stand up for their rights are essential keys to a more just and equal future.
On this International Day of the Girl Child, let us remind young Congolese girls that they have the power to shape their future and that they must wake up to seize all the opportunities available to them. By standing up for their rights and making themselves heard, they contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
Interview by Nancy Clémence Tshimueneka, for Fatshimétrie.