In a determined effort to combat sexual violence and empower the girls of Akwa Ibom State, the Centre for Young People Development and Poverty Alleviation Initiative (CYDPAN), with support from the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), has amplified its Speak Up program under its KASA project. The project is focused on raising awareness and promoting sexual violence preventive strategies in secondary schools across the state.
As part of its expanding efforts, CYDPAN recently took its campaign to St. Vincent Secondary School in Oti-Oro, Okobo Local Government Area. The team engaged students and educators, reiterating their dedication to eradicating sexual violence, promoting gender equality, and challenging harmful traditional practices that perpetuate systemic inequalities.
Robert Boniface, CYDPAN’s Program Manager, opened the session by emphasizing the critical role of prevention in safeguarding young girls. “Creating a safe environment for girls is not just about responding to sexual violence but stopping it before it begins,” he said. The initiative’s strategy prioritizes prevention while aiming for lasting change through education and awareness.
Mrs. Akanimo Oriowo, a guest speaker, delivered a compelling lecture on sexual violence prevention. She highlighted the devastating impact of such acts on young girls and underscored the importance of reporting incidents to ensure accountability and deterrence. “Sexual violence is a public health crisis affecting millions of young girls annually,” she said, urging students to take charge of their futures by speaking out against sexual violence.
A significant outcome of the day was the establishment of a “Speak Up” club at St. Vincent Secondary School. The club, made up of four female teachers and twelve senior students, aims to continue the awareness campaign within the school and provide a safe space for students to discuss and address issues of sexual violence. CYDPAN has pledged ongoing mentorship and follow-ups to ensure the club thrives and achieves its objectives.
To reinforce the school’s capacity to combat sexual violence, CYDPAN distributed critical resources, such as copies of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, the Gender-Based Violence Training Manual for Schools, and a comprehensive pamphlet on sexual violence prevention strategies. These tools are designed to empower students with practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of their rights and protections.
The CYDPAN-KASA Project has quickly become a beacon of hope for women and girls who have suffered in silence. Supported by AWDF, the initiative is not only challenging harmful cultural norms but also equipping communities with the tools they need to create a future free from fear and oppression.
By addressing deeply ingrained ideologies and empowering young girls with the resources for resilience, CYDPAN is leading a transformative shift in Akwa Ibom State. The message for students at St. Vincent Secondary School and the wider community is clear: with awareness, education, and unity, a brighter and safer future is possible.
Through initiatives like this, CYDPAN is fostering a culture of respect, justice, and equality. This support from AWDF underscores the strength of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful social change. For the young girls of Akwa Ibom state, this campaign offers not just a lifeline but a promise of a world where they can thrive without fear.
With a firm commitment to justice and equality, CYDPAN continues to lead the charge against sexual violence, one school at a time.
