Assistant professor Talat Sarikavak said “October 11 was International Day of the Girl Child. It has been commemorated by the United Nations to emphasize the problems of girls in basic needs such as education, health and shelter, and to raise awareness since 2012. Unfortunately, the reason for its emergence is that gender inequality starts from childhood, from girl children…''
Gender inequality is a problem not only in our country, but in the whole world. Child marriages have not fallen off the agenda in our country or in the world. Girls are less able to benefit from resources such as internet access and digital devices that have become mandatory during the pandemic period. Likewise, they are more neglected and subjected to more violence.
However, it is women, especially girls, who are decisive in the transformation and progress of a society. A well-bred girl can stand on her own feet. In addition to its direct contributions to social life, it ensures its continuity by ensuring that its children are well raised. A grown girl means a grown generation.
This is exactly why, perhaps, 5 of Atatürk's 7 adopted children are girls. Atatürk always gave importance to children. However, he gave more importance to the education of girls and the participation of women in social life. It is also a pleasant coincidence that today is celebrated just after the World Mental Health Day, which is celebrated on October 10, reminding the importance of girls for the mental health of the society and the individual.
“Great achievements are made with the help of outstanding children raised by precious mothers.”
M. KEMAL ATATURK
I wish for a future where girls and women do not need to be protected, they can protect themselves and gender equality is ensured.
1 https://www.unicef.org/gender-equality/international-day-girl-2021 – UNICEF Web Page
2 https://ataturkancyclopedisi.gov.tr/bilgi/ataturkun-manevi-cocuklari/ – Atatürk Encyclopedia
