International Women’s Day: Dr. Binta Lawal Calls for Stronger Support Systems for Women in Education

International Women’s Day: Dr. Binta Lawal Calls for Stronger Support Systems for Women in Education

As the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day under the theme “Give to Gain,” a Lecturer in the Department of Education Management and Planning, Dr. Binta Lawal Bagiwa, has described the occasion as a time for reflection, advocacy, and renewed commitment to advancing women’s inclusion and leadership.

Speaking in an interview ahead of the global celebration, Dr. Lawal said International Women’s Day goes beyond festivities and symbolic gestures, stressing that it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and contributions of women who have shaped history.

According to her, Nigeria has produced remarkable female leaders whose legacies continue to inspire generations. She cited figures such as Queen Amina, a historic symbol of strength and leadership; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization and former Minister of Finance; the late Dora Akunyili; and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

“These women have played significant roles in advancing advocacy and leadership for women. Their labour will never be in vain,” she said.

Challenges in Academia

Reflecting on her personal journey, Dr. Lawal identified balancing professional responsibilities with family expectations as one of the major challenges faced by women in academia. She also highlighted stereotypes and structural barriers that often limit women’s access to leadership positions.

“Women sometimes have to work harder to have their competence recognized. There are structural barriers and limited leadership opportunities, and women remain underrepresented in many decision-making spaces,” she noted.

Overcoming Obstacles

Dr. Lawal attributed her success to faith, continuous professional development, mentorship, strategic planning, and collaboration. She emphasized the importance of attending national and international conferences, building professional networks, and applying educational theories to solve administrative challenges.

“No one knows everything. Collaboration is key. When women work together and share knowledge, obstacles become easier to overcome,” she added.

The Future of Women in Higher Education

Looking ahead, Dr. Lawal called for greater representation of women in educational leadership and policy-making spaces. She advocated stronger implementation of gender-responsive planning, improved workplace policies, increased investment in STEM education for girls, and cultural reorientation that values women’s contributions.

She also stressed the need for safe and inclusive school environments, beginning from early childhood education, including adequate and separate facilities for girls to ensure dignity and protection.

Mentorship and Inspiration

Dr. Lawal revealed that her biggest inspiration is Professor Hawai Imam, who mentored her from undergraduate level through her doctoral studies and continues to serve as a role model in educational leadership.

She encouraged women in research and academia to support one another by sharing opportunities, mentoring younger colleagues, collaborating rather than competing in isolation, and amplifying one another’s voices.

“When we give mentorship, we gain stronger institutions. When we give opportunities, we gain innovation. And when we support girls, we gain national development,” she said.

As International Women’s Day approaches, Dr. Lawal’s message resonates clearly: empowering women is not merely about celebration, but about deliberate investment, collaboration, and sustained advocacy for inclusion and opportunity.