Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The PathMothers Organization on Saturday, October 25, 2025, convened a transformative seminar at the International Open University (IOU) under the theme “Empowering Young and Single Mothers through Education, Resilience, and Collaborative Male Support for a Brighter Child Future.”
The event brought together advocates, educators, students, and community leaders united by a common goal: to support young and single mothers in their pursuit of education, empowerment, and self-reliance.
In her opening remarks, the founder of PathMothers, Aji Jacob Njie, said the initiative was born from the need to uplift women who often face stigma, hardship, and social exclusion.
“We are here to celebrate courage, the courage of young mothers who rise each morning to nurture dreams even when the world gives them little care,” she said, adding that empowering women through education strengthens entire communities.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the IOU Director, Mr. Macky Taal underscored education as a transformative tool for social and economic development.
“Education is not merely a slogan; it is a strategy for breaking cycles of exclusion and building national resilience,” he said.
Mr. Taal emphasized the need for accessible, flexible, and child-friendly learning opportunities for mothers, complemented by mental health and peer support systems. He also called for stronger collaboration between men and women, stressing that lasting empowerment depends on inclusive participation.
“Male collaboration is not optional; it is essential,” he stated, urging fathers and brothers to support mothers in their educational and professional journeys.
Human rights lawyer Awa Gai, in her presentation, discussed breaking barriers and recognizing the power of education and the law in transforming lives. Sharing her personal story, she said:
“Education became my lifeline. It gave me the courage to dream differently and to challenge societal limitations.”
She urged women to view education not only as a path to employment but also as a tool for independence and empowerment.
Mrs. Nenneh Cheyassin Secka, an aspiring political candidate, also inspired participants by stressing that women’s empowerment begins with education.
“When a woman is educated, an entire generation is lifted. Education gives women the voice and confidence to shape their future,” she said.
Speaking on the role of men in empowering single mothers, Mr. Sheriffo Jobarteh reminded participants that true empowerment cannot be achieved without male involvement. He encouraged men to be active allies in promoting women’s growth and dismantling the stigma surrounding single motherhood.
The seminar concluded with a renewed call for partnership between communities, educational institutions, and civil society organizations to ensure that young and single mothers are not left behind.
In her closing message, Aji Jacob Njie captured the spirit of the event:
“When mothers are empowered through education, children thrive and nations rise.”
