By Joy Salami
In a bid to combat gender-based violence and promote equality, members of Kogi State Women Committee of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), recently embarked on a sensitisation campaign to educate students on the menace.
The Committee which is chaired by Comrade Habibat Ibrahim, took the sensitization campaign to secondary school students in Lokoja.
The event, held at GYB Model Science Secondary School, Adankolo, Lokoja, emphasised the importance of empowering women and the girl child against violence and discrimination.
In her welcome address, Comrade Habibat Ibrahim highlighted the urgency of addressing violence against women and girls, describing it as a societal issue that demands collective action.
“Every act of violence perpetuates a cycle of fear and inequality,” she stated, urging students to challenge harmful stereotypes and take a stand for equality.
She encouraged the young audience to use the platform to ask questions and share ideas to combat gender-based violence effectively.
The event featured Mrs. Ife Bolorunduro as the Guest Speaker, who delivered an enlightening lecture on the various forms of violence affecting women and girls.
She stressed the significance of education and awareness in breaking the cycle of abuse and encouraged students to become advocates for change within their communities.
The State NLC Chairman, Comrade Gabriel Amari, was represented by Comrade Matthew Olabe, commended the initiative and reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls in society. noting that sensitization campaigns like this play a crucial role in fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
The sensitization program brought together students, educators, and activists in a collaborative effort to address gender-based violence.
Participants engaged in discussions on strategies to promote a safer environment for women and girls, focusing on the role of education in eradicating harmful practices.
As the campaign concluded, participants expressed hope that the initiative would inspire lasting change and empower students to lead the fight against gender-based violence in their schools, homes, and communities.