To raise awareness during the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, schools in Edo State are being educated to recognize and report instances of sexual and gender-based violence.
This educational campaign, led by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme in partnership with the state Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, aims to provide young individuals with the necessary knowledge and resources to tackle the increasing issue of SGBV.
The sensitization program, titled “UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” is in line with the broader goals of the European Union’s Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) 2022–2027 and builds upon the achievements of RoLAC I.
Its focus is on enhancing access to justice for marginalized groups such as women, children, juveniles, individuals with disabilities, and SGBV victims.
Throughout the school sessions, students are being taught how to spot signs of abuse, understand their rights, and report incidents through proper channels. Practical illustrations and interactive discussions aim to simplify the reporting process and address concerns about stigma or retaliation faced by survivors.
Statistics presented during the program reveal a distressingly high prevalence of SGBV cases in Edo State, many of which go unreported due to lack of awareness and fear of victim-blaming. RoLAC’s initiatives are crafted to bridge these gaps and advocate for stricter enforcement of existing policies and laws.
This effort is part of a broader range of activities planned for the 16 Days of Activism, including community awareness campaigns, social media initiatives, public walks, and a significant press conference.
These endeavors are aimed at highlighting deficiencies in policy implementation, stimulating meaningful dialogues, and urging policymakers to prioritize SGBV prevention and response in their agendas.
Uche Nwokedi, State Programme Coordinator for RoLAC, stressed the importance of involving youth, stating “Ending SGBV demands a comprehensive strategy. By initiating in schools, we are empowering the next generation to advocate for change and ensuring they are aware of accessing justice when necessary.”
Stakeholders are hopeful that this year’s activities will mobilize public backing and reinforce advocacy campaigns to combat SGBV, not only in Edo State but throughout Nigeria.