Zodiak Broadcasting Station has rewarded outstanding girls in the 2019 MSCE examinations under the media house’s flagship Best Girl Award initiative at an event that took place in Kasungu.

Inkosikhazi Gomani, who was guest of honor at the event, hailed Zodiak for the initiative whose aim is to promote girls’ education in the country.

The four awardees, Chimwemwe Mphamba, Ruth Bizeck, Callina Mbale and Debora Sichone were awarded at this year's Zodiak Annual Girl Child awards at a ceremony held at Loyola Jesuits Secondary School in Kasungu Friday.

Zodiak Managing Director Gospel Kazako challenged girls that they can be anything they want in the future.

"Women continue to be oppressed in society due to low education levels, but education is the key to empowering more women in decision-making positions," he said.

Kazako also observed that time is now for the country to go beyond rhetoric but demonstrate effort to promote girls’ education and women empowerment.

"The gap between men and women remains big because those in authority are not turning their rhetoric into practice. Education is the tool to turn the tables upside down.”

Inkosikati Gomani, wife to Inkosi ya Makosi Gomani of Ntcheu, urged the girls to remain focused to achieve their dreams.

She said in the world young girls are facing so many challenges, urging the awardees to utilize the opportunity they have to be in school to change their future.

"Girls can! Don't look down on yourself. Aim high. It’s achievable," she said.

The awardees have gone away with cash prices, hampers, and certificates among others.

Two of the awardees are from Loyola Jesuits Secondary school, a development that attracted Zodiak to conduct the function at the institution.

Loyola Jesuits Secondary school Parents Teacher Association also took advantage of the function to award teachers and support staff at the school for excellence.

Chairperson of the PTA Dr Augustine Magolowondo splashed K3.7 Million Kwacha cash prizes to the staff members for a 100% pass rate.

"We expect nothing but the best. Being on top of the ten best secondary schools this year isn't a mean achievement for a new school like this," he said.