By Bishop Aturu
Members of the Participation Initiative For Behavioral Change in Development (PIBCID), in collaboration with the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF), sensitised school students in Kogi on the Child Right Law.
The capacity building training programme held in Lokoja, focused on Child Rights Law for selected government secondary schools in Kogi State.
It drew participants from various educational institutions, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
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The Executive Director of PIBCID, Mrs. Remilekun Akande, delivered the opening remarks, emphasising the critical need for awareness and enforcement of Child Rights Law in schools and communities.
She highlighted the organisation’s commitment to advancing children’s rights and ensuring that students understand the importance of speaking up against abuse and violations.
The training, facilitated by Mr. Nathaniel Abaniwo, revolved around the theme: ‘Accelerating Action for Child Development: Understanding Child Rights Law.’
In his session, Mr. Abaniwo, detailed the fundamental aspects of the Child Rights Law, its implications for protecting children, and the significance of being vocal in reporting cases of child abuse.
He further engaged the participants in interactive discussions, urging students to recognise their rights and the appropriate channels for reporting violations.
Other notable speakers included Mr. Inah Isaac from the Ministry of Women Affairs, who discussed government’s role in safeguarding children’s rights and the collaborative efforts needed to enforce the law.
Representatives from other NGOs also contributed insights into community-based strategies for protecting vulnerable children and promoting child welfare.
The capacity-building event was well-received, with participants expressing appreciation for the knowledge gained and pledging to advocate for children’s rights in their respective schools and communities.
The training covered five government secondary schools in Kogi State, namely: Bishop Delise College, Crowder Memorial College, Muslim Community Secondary School, Government Day Secondary School and Government Science Secondary School, Lokoja.
Participants who were drawn from JSS 1 to SS 2 assured the organisers of their readiness to organise step-down training for stakeholders, just as they assured that all students from the participating schools would be properly sensitised.
The initiative marked a significant step towards empowering young students with the understanding and necessary tools and knowledge required to uphold their rights as well as report cases of abuse effectively.
