In a significant step towards addressing sexual violence, the Centre for Young People Development and Poverty Alleviation Initiative (CYDPAN), with the support of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), has successfully implemented the KASA Project at Community Secondary School, Mbokpo Eyokan, Urue Offong/Oruko LGA, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The initiative saw 312 schoolgirls empowered with vital knowledge and tools to combat sexual violence, marking a transformative moment in the fight against one of society’s most pressing challenges. The campaign underscored the importance of proactive measures to confront, prevent, and raise awareness about this issue, positioning education as a cornerstone in the fight against gender-based violence.
Barrister Nsanawaji Adasi, CYDPAN’s Executive Director, led the sensitization sessions with a strong emphasis on public enlightenment as a pivotal strategy to reshape attitudes, beliefs, and value systems. “Public enlightenment is essential for changing societal norms that perpetuate violence,” said Barrister Adasi. “Through education, we aim to demystify myths surrounding sexual assault and create environments that are safer for women and girls. Preventing sexual violence requires proactive strategies.” Barrister Adasi highlighted that empowering young girls with preventive strategies is key to ensuring their overall well-being and long-term safety. The campaign also debunked traditional ideologies that reinforce harmful gender roles, with students learning about the importance of recognizing and resisting societal expectations that perpetuate aggression and passivity in gender dynamics.
The event featured the launch of the KASA (SPEAK UP) Club, aimed at sustaining awareness on sexual violence prevention. CYDPAN’s Program Coordinator, Mr. Robert Boniface, provided the club with educational materials, including activity guides, legal documents like the VAPP Law, and GBV training manuals. Students were also trained on reporting pathways and given key contacts for accessing support, ensuring ongoing impact within the school
Mrs. Jenny Okwong, a teacher at Community Secondary School Mbokpo Eyokan and newly appointed leader of the SPEAK UP Club, expressed heartfelt appreciation for CYDPAN’s transformative initiative. “This intervention not only confronts deeply rooted societal norms but also paves the way for a future where our girls can flourish free from the shadow of violence,” she stated, applauding CYDPAN’s commitment to challenging harmful gender stereotypes and fostering equality.
In his closing remarks, Robert Boniface stressed the need for comprehensive efforts to prevent sexual violence, urging vigilance and the application of CYDPAN’s preventive measures. He called for global collaboration to combat this issue and pledged CYDPAN’s continued advocacy for systemic change.
The campaign concluded with schoolgirls feeling empowered and equipped to combat sexual violence, highlighting the transformative impact of education and community-driven advocacy. The KASA project remains a beacon of hope, inspiring a new generation to challenge harmful norms and uphold women’s rights.
