On December 5, 2024, the Center for Young People’s Development and Poverty Alleviation Initiative (CYDPAN) with Support from African Women Development Fund (AWDF) hosted an enlightening and impactful session at the Uda Community Secondary School in Afi Uda, Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State aimed at empowering students to take an active role in preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors.
The event, which was part of CYDPAN’s ongoing efforts to educate young people about sexual violence prevention, engaged students in a series of interactive discussions and workshops. The team from CYDPAN used real-life examples and research-based strategies to educate the students on how to recognize the signs of sexual violence, understand consent, and create a safe environment for their peers. The initiative also emphasized the importance of speaking out and advocating for those who have been affected by such traumatic experiences.
The highlight of the event was the formation of the KASA (Speak Up) Club, a student-driven initiative designed to raise awareness about sexual violence while providing a safe space for survivors to find support. The KASA Club, which was established by CYDPAN with the support of AWDF, will function as a forum for students to engage in meaningful conversations, share their concerns, and work together to prevent sexual violence both inside and outside the school. It aims to empower young people to speak out against violence, change harmful behaviors, and provide a platform for survivors to be heard.
The leadership team of the club includes the school’s senior prefect and other dedicated students who will work alongside teachers and staff to ensure the club’s activities are sustainable and impactful. The teacher advisor will provide additional guidance, ensuring that students have the resources and support they need to succeed in their mission.
CYDPAN’s interactive session went beyond just raising awareness—it was a call to action for students to become ambassadors of change in their own communities. Through engaging discussions, students were encouraged to take responsibility for creating a supportive environment for their peers, whether in the classroom, at home, or in their neighborhoods. The initiative also highlighted the importance of empowering both young women and men to stand up for what is right and act as role models for others.
The school administrator and teachers at Uda Community Secondary School expressed their sincere appreciation for the valuable knowledge shared by CYDPAN. “Today’s session was not only educational but also deeply inspiring,” the school administrator remarked. “We are grateful for the time and effort CYDPAN dedicated to this cause. This initiative has sparked a deeper conversation within our school community about sexual violence and how we can all play a part in preventing it.”
Students who attended the session expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such an important conversation. Many spoke about how the information shared had changed their perceptions of the issue, with some noting that they now felt more equipped to help friends or family members who may be struggling with such experiences.
The establishment of the KASA (Speak Up) Club is a significant milestone for CYDPAN, as it aligns with the organization’s ongoing mission to build a more informed and proactive generation of young people. The club will hold regular meetings, where students can discuss strategies to address sexual violence, create awareness campaigns, and develop outreach programs. In doing so, the club not only advocates for survivors but also works towards eliminating the stigma and silence often surrounding such incidents.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by CYDPAN to work with Public schools and communities to promote gender equality, prevent sexual violence, and support those affected. By providing young people with the knowledge and skills to act as change agents, CYDPAN hopes to build a safer and more equitable environment for all individuals, especially the most vulnerable.
The successful launch of the KASA Club at Uda Community Secondary School marks just the beginning. CYDPAN plans to expand the program to more schools across the region, ensuring that sexual violence prevention and survivor support become integral parts of the conversation in every community. As the organization continues to champion these vital issues, it remains committed to empowering young people, encouraging them to lead the way in creating a society where everyone can feel safe, valued, and supported.
Through initiatives like these, CYDPAN is helping to foster a future where young people not only have the tools to prevent sexual violence but are also equipped to create lasting change for generations to come.
