Penn Urges Investment In BVI Girls
In observance of International Day of the Girl Child, Eighth District Representative Marlon Penn emphasized the urgent need to invest in young women across the Virgin Islands. Speaking on behalf of the National Democratic Party, Penn called for safer schools, expanded STEM opportunities, and robust protection against abuse.
In observance of International Day of the Girl Child, Eighth District Representative and member of the National Democratic Party, Hon. Penn, has emphasized the need for tangible action and comprehensive investment in the future of young women across the Virgin Islands. This year's global observance carried the theme of ending child marriage and investing in girls' rights.
While acknowledging that the territory does not face child marriage as a prevalent statistic, Penn noted that the Virgin Islands still contends with the same fundamental challenge of securing full equity and opportunity for young girls. Penn questioned whether society is making sufficient investments in girls, stressing that leadership must lead by example.
He noted that young women are closely observing whether decision-makers provide them with safe learning environments, legitimate avenues in sports and technology, protection from abuse, and meaningful representation at decision-making tables. According to Penn, sustainable national development must remain centred around people.
He asserted that the Virgin Islands cannot build a resilient and prosperous future if young women are left to fight independently for education, self-confidence, and leadership roles. The lawmaker affirmed his party's commitment to empowering education, tangible protection, and equal opportunity across the territory.
He called for universal access to quality education, skills training, and STEM programmes on every island, while insisting on the strict enforcement of policies against violence, harassment, and discrimination in homes, schools, and online spaces. Addressing young girls across Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke directly, Penn encouraged them to recognise their own value and potential, declaring that their voices and ambitions are essential to the future of the Virgin Islands.
On the global stage, statistics from UNICEF highlight that more than 12 million girls are married before adulthood each year, severely limiting their access to education and exposing them to widespread rights violations. The agency continues to advocate for international solutions that safeguard girls, keep them in school, and empower them to shape their own futures.
Primary source: VINO