University girls urged to focus on studies

Female university students have been cautioned against deviant behaviour that can ruin their academics and put their health at risk. Hon. Athanasie Gahondogo challenged the students to focus on their studies and building a foundation to ensure a bright future for themselves and their families. Gahondogo made the remarks while presenting a paper on, “Rwandan woman in the history of education” during a meeting with female students from the School of Journalism and Communication at the former National University of Rwanda in Kigali. Gahondogo said in the past, women were oppressed and most did not have a chance to go to school, which put them at a disadvantage compared to their male counterparts.“The tradition suggested that a well-educated girl is one who is shy and cares about hygiene and culinary activities only,” she said.In 2008, the government put in place an affirmative action policy to encourage women to join higher education.She however pointed out that despite this good law, a lot still needed to be done to enhance female education. She noted that only 30 percent of students in public universities are female and 50 percent in private higher learning institutions.Gahondogo dismissed those who say that affirmative action promotes laziness and poor performance among girls, saying the policy is meant to uplift the status of women. She challenged the female university students to work hard and excel in the studies. “Female students are often characterised by lack of confidence, reliance on help from other people, or are strongly affected by family problems. However, I have learnt how I can realise my potential and achieve greatness through hard work and living a responsible life,” Annet Mukanoheri, one of the students who attended the meeting, said.Uwase Denise, another female student, said it is important for women leaders to always encourage and guide young girls.