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Tag: GBV campaign

  • Lafarge takes GBV campaign to school

    Lafarge takes GBV campaign to school

    Lafarge Africa PLC has launched an awareness campaign on gender-based violence across its communities as part of activities to commemorate the International Women’s Day.

    Speaking during the gender-based sensitization and defense workshop at Onitolo Community Senior High School, Lagos, the Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Director, Lafarge Africa,  Viola Graham-Douglas explained that the workshop aimed at helping young girls to understand the meaning of gender-based violence and the right approach to address and avoid it.

    According to Graham-Douglas, gender-based violence is not just about inflicting physical harm to the victims, but is  any action that makes one  feel unsafe, disrespected, or powerless because of one’s gender.

    She  added: “Today’s workshop serves as a huge opportunity for us to assist those that need support. We need to make them aware of how best to defend themselves should they find themselves in any form of abuse.”

    She encouraged the young girls  to be bold, confident and self-aware whether at school, or anywhere else they find themselves.

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    The Chief Executive Officer, Famasi Africa, Adeola Ayoola challenged them  to be  courageous in confronting their fears by exposing those people involved in gender-based violence. She added that being bold and courageous would bring shame to the actors.

    Ayoola urged the young women and girls to avoid seeking people’s validation for their actions as this could make them vulnerable to gender-based violence. She therefore charged them to be self-confident and believe in themselves.

    Chief Executive Officer, The Re-Direct Academy, Helen Oladele, a gender-based advocate, stressed the need for young ladies to be disciplined and inculcate the right values that would help them shape the future they desire.

    The gender-based sensitization and defence workshop was put together by Lafarge Africa PLC  in partnership with Education District IV, Lagos Ministry of Education.

  • Five Lagos schools benefit from GBV campaign

    Five Lagos schools benefit from GBV campaign

    No fewer than five secondary schools in Lagos State have benefited from the state Domestic Violence Law of 2007 and issues related to Gender-based Violence (GBV) campaign initiated by a non-governmental organisation, Leadership Initiatives for Youth Employment (LIFE).

     The campaign, launched earlier this month and continuing through next month aims to equip pupils with the knowledge and skills needed to recognise, prevent, and address GBV in their schools and communities.

     The sensitisation has reached schools, including Divine Infinity College, Jaimure College, Divine International School, Heros Immaculate College, and Nubi Private School.

     LIFE’s sessions involved interactive workshops that cover the complexities of GBV and provide psycho-social support to survivors within these schools.

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     At Jaimure College, located at Ire-Akari Estate Road, Isagatedo, the LIFE team—comprising the Programme Officer, Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Officer, and Administration Assistant—led an impactful session aimed at raising awareness and promoting proactive measures among pupils.

     The M&E Officer explained the distinction between sex and gender, laying a foundation for understanding GBV’s various forms, including physical abuse, verbal harassment, sexual assault, and bullying.

     “These sessions are designed to empower students with critical knowledge and the confidence to speak out against violence and discrimination,” said the LIFE M&E Officer.

     The Programme Officer highlighted the importance of the Lagos State Violence Law and role of the Crisis Response Centre in supporting survivors.

     With 80 pupils attending the assembly at Jaimure College, the session engaged the pupils and inspired many to volunteer for LIFE’s initiatives.

    Teachers were also urged to report any instances of GBV, fostering a safer school environment.

     At Divine Infinity College, the assembly sensitization was led by the same LIFE team and focused on the pressing issue of GBV in schools.

     The M&E Officer initiated discussions on GBV, emphasizing its detrimental impacts.

     The Program Officer provided insights into LIFE’s mission and services, including the Crisis Response Centre. “The engagement and enthusiasm from the pupils were remarkable. Their willingness to volunteer and propose projects demonstrates a growing commitment to combating GBV.”

     During the session, immediate counseling was provided to three pupils who had experienced GBV, with follow-up support planned.

     The proactive approach aims to address the emotional and psychological needs of survivors, fostering a supportive environment within the school.

     At Heros Immaculate College, the LIFE team conducted another assembly to raise awareness about GBV.

    The M&E Officer discussed the prevalence and forms of GBV, while the Programme Officer elaborated on LIFE’s services and the protection offered by the Lagos State Violence Law.

     The session saw active participation from 88 students, who expressed keen interest in addressing GBV and initiating projects with LIFE’s involvement. This engagement underscores a collective effort to create safer, more inclusive educational environments. In celebration of Children’s Day, LIFE was invited to Nubi Private School to educate pupils about GBV and promote self-esteem.

     Experts from LIFE led sessions that empowered pupils to recognize GBV and advocate for change.

    Through interactive discussions and activities, students gained valuable skills to navigate their social environments with confidence and resilience.

     “Pupils left the event inspired and motivated to become agents of change, promoting gender equality and advocating for their rights,” said a LIFE educator. LIFE’s ongoing campaign in Lagos State highlights the importance of education and support in combating GBV.

     Through these sensitisation sessions, LIFE aims to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and equality, ensuring that every student feels safe and empowered to speak out against violence and discrimination.

     The initiative’s success is evident in the growing commitment among students and teachers to create a safer and more inclusive environment in their schools and communities.