Leadership reports that, the Kwara State Government has identified proper education and public awareness as key solutions to combat the exploitation of the girl-child in society.

The Permanent Secretary in the state's Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, Mrs. Olanrewaju Bake, highlighted this during a conference held yesterday in Ilorin. The event was organised by the Chidimma and Havilah Foundation, in partnership with the Seeds of Praise Centre for Youth, Women, and Children Development Initiative, to mark the 2014 International Day of the Girl-Child.

Mrs. Bake outlined several factors contributing to the exploitation of the girl-child, including poverty, gender discrimination, societal and religious barriers, and instances of sexual violence.

Represented by a director in the ministry, Mrs. Victoria Funmilayo, the permanent secretary outlined the many challenges facing girls worldwide to include poverty, illiteracy, gender discrimination, religious and societal limitations and sexual violence.

To address these challenges, she advocated increased awareness and empowerment of girls through education, economic and social support, and psychological tools.