The DAFI (Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative) scholarship programme offers qualified refugee and returnee students the possibility to earn an undergraduate degree in their country of asylum or home country.
Through the dedicated support of the government of Germany, the support of Denmark and the Czech Republic, UNHCR and other private donors, the programme has supported over 18,500 young refugees to undertake tertiary studies since 1992, according to official version.
In the Gambia, the programme is being implemented by Gambia Food and Nutrition Association (GAFNA) in partnership with the UN Refugee agency; and it’s said to be currently supporting over 13 students at the university and other higher tertiary institutions in the Gambia.
Meanwhile, Gambia DAFI club, in collaboration with GAFNA and UNHCR, recently held their celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) at a ceremony held at the Nutrition Association’s complex in Bakau, Kanifing Municipality (KM).
It could be recollected that the United Nations (UN) theme for this year’s IWD–which is globally commemorated on 8 March of every year–is “Gender Equality Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow”
Mr. Yusufa J. Gomez, Executive Director of GAFNA, addressing the commemorative event reminded them the theme “is in recognition and celebration of the women and girls who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation and response, and to honor their leadership and contribution towards a sustainable future”. He added it’s is the time to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women.
Executive Director Gomez further said the day aims to spread the message of gender equality and promote a better society where there is no gender bias. “And today indeed, we are here to celebrate women’s day to honor the accomplishments of women. Remember there is no sustainable future without women and girls.
“Therefore, we have to act now to bridge the gender gap and ensure that the playing ground is leveled,” he told the gathering.
Ms. Benoitte P. A. Osango Ntshaykolo, a representative of DAFI Club Gambia, said according to the Equality Act, a woman is defined as a female of any age, and any person like a baby girl, a teenager is defined as a woman. She also held that a woman defines peace, love patience, and integrity.
“The government of the Gambia recognizes gender equality and women empowerment as a key factor for the attainment of socioeconomic development. The constitution of The Gambia recognizes the importance and the rights of women in the society,” the DAFI official stated.
Ntshaykolo went on to say, DAFI also recognizes the efforts of the Gambia in ratifying, domesticating, and enacting laws for the protection of the rights and the well-being, of women. “DAFI calls on the government of the Gambia to appoint more women in leadership positions,” she declared.
Ms. Isatou Dibba spoke on the theme of the celebration, noting there is no sustainable development without a fair playing field for all, irrespective of sex, caste, and cultural norms in any society.
