Mozambique is among the countries invited to take part in the first edition of an exchange programme on racial equality, promoted by Brazil. The information was shared on Tuesday 22 August in Maputo by the Brazilian Minister for Racial Equality, Anielle Franco.
Speaking during a discussion entitled “American Paths: Strengthening Women in Spaces of Power”, which took place at the Pedagogical University (UP-Maputo), she said that the programme essentially aims to promote the rights of black people, especially women, who face many barriers in their daily lives, from social inclusion to access to healthcare, education and freedom of expression.
“Black women have carried the burden of social inequality for many years and so, as a way of breaking this paradigm, we are promoting various exchange programmes, the first phase of which will be short-term and aimed at students from Mozambique, Cape Verde and Colombia,” she said.
For the leader, it is important to build smarter societies that promote a new cycle of prosperity, respect, freedom, well-being and plurality, as a way of eliminating the mistakes of the past and strengthening diplomatic and academic relations between countries.
“We’re working towards inclusion and, at the same time, we’re going to invest in exchanges of experiences, knowledge and public policies, without forgetting the preservation of culture, since most of us are of African descent. Let’s continue to be at the forefront, looking at the world without ever forgetting our own countries. Women can reach academic heights, break down barriers, live experiences, establish networks and occupy prestigious positions,” she said.
Anielle Franco emphasised that educational institutions are privileged spaces, so they must develop subjects of respect and equality of race and gender, and not opt for discrimination and prejudice.
“Women should be free and make their own choices,” she added.
For his part, the Rector of UP-Maputo, Jorge Ferrão, revealed that there are well-established training relationships between Brazil and Mozambique, which include the Pedagogical University.
“We have partnerships and several teachers who have trained in that country. We currently want to send ten students and some teachers to take part in activities and establish a dialogue,” he concluded.