Enugu State Government, with the support of the Skills Development for Youth Employment (SKYE II) programme, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) Friday, December 6, sensitized technical and vocational education and training students on Gender-Based Violence.
The workshop titled “Sensitization on Gender-Based Violence to Create a Safe Space for Girls and Boys to Thrive in TVET Colleges.” held at the Science Technical Vocation Schools Management Board (STVSMB) , Enugu, brought together 100 students and 50 teachers.
The alignment with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence was aimed at raising awareness among students about gender-based violence (GBV), their rights, and how they can protect themselves. The event also sought to empower students to speak out against violence and create a safe space where both girls and boys can be .
. Pix: The panel
Through a series of presentations, interactive discussions, and role-playing activities, the participants engaged in meaningful conversations on how to recognize and prevent 7d communities.
Resource persons from Lead Foundation and SSDO led the sensitization providing valuable insights into GBV prevention, rights protection, and self-empowerment.
A panel discussion featuring the Commissioner for Gender, the State CID Police, and the School Board Chairman offered an opportunity for students and teachers to ask questions and express their concerns about gender-based violence in their environment.
In her speech the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Enih, emphasised the importance of the event6v the an spaces within our educational institutions is essential.
Represented by the Permanent secretary at the ministry ,Mrs. Ngozi Egbo the commissioner said ,ithe sensitization initiative will play a crucial role in empowering students and teachers to protect themselves and take action against gender-based violence. We are committed to ensuring a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone,’ she said.
According to her, through the collaboration between the Enugu State Government and GIZ SKYE, thie event marks an important step towards combating gender-based violence and promoting the well-being of students in Enugu’s technical colleges.
” The partnership highlights the shared commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive in an environment free from violence and discrimination,” she said.
Pic : Helen
In her welcome address, the chairman of the Enugu State Science Technical and Vocational Schools Management Board ( STVSMB), Dr Amaka Ngene, said the program demonstrates their unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for students and teachers.
” It is a vital part of our vision for the TVET sector in Enugu State—one where every student, regardless of gender, feels protected, valued, and motivated to pursue their dreams without fear of harassment or discrimination, ” she said
Pix: Participants
She commended the state Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, for his visionary leadership and proactive measures in ensuring that schools in the state were sanctuaries
of. learning and growth , ,saying , “under his administration, several initiatives have been implemented to safeguard our students and staff.
“These include: The Safe School Initiative, which ensures fencing of 265 Smart Schools and safeguarding of school perimeters to protect students from external threats .The establishment of support systems such as school counseling units to provide psychological
support for students affected by any form of abuse o violence. The civil society organizations, and international partners
like the GIZ SKYE program, to address key challenge affecting education in the state.”
The STVSMB chairman noted that the event was another testament to the Governor’s commitment to fostering a culture of zero tolerance for GBV in schools.
“Through this sensitization program, we teach the students, teachers and administrators about the dangers of GBV, it’s far-reaching effects, and the need for a collective effort to eradicate it.
Advising the students, she said, “To our students, you are the future and invaluable assets of this great state. Witness or experience. Know that you are not alone; there are systems in place to protect and support you..
Pix: Dr. Amaka Nge
To the teachers, she said, “our teachers and administrators, you play a critical role as the guardians of our students. We count on you to lead by example, uphold professional ethics, and be vigilant in safeguarding the welfare of your care,” she said..
She commended the GIZ SKYE program for its invaluable partnership and dedication, saying, “together, we are creating a legacy of safety, equality, and empowerment for generations to come.Thank you all for being here today and for your unwavering commitment to this noble cause together, let us make our TVET schools in Enugu state a model of excellence, where every studen can learn, thrive, and achieve their full potential in an environment free from fear and intimidation.,” Dr. Ngene said.
In her Goodwill remarks, Programme Component, Manager: Gender and Inclusion, GIZ Skills Development for Youth Employment SKYE. •Germam federal Min. for Economie Corporation , Helen Igboka,
Pix: Enugu state Project Coordinator, Agency for Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment , Dr. Ebele Georgina Chukwu Onuorah., said the collaboration between GIZ Skills Acquisition for Youth Employment Programme, the Board for Technical Colleges, the Women Affairs Ministry, the State Police, and civil society organizations highlights the transformative power of partnership in addressing gender-based violence and its impact on the communities.
“This joint effort directly supports the Sustainable Development Goals: advancing gender equality (SDG 5), ensuring access to quality education (SDG 4), and building inclusive, resilient communities (SDG 11).
“By fostering safe learning environments and equipping youth with life skills, we actively reduce poverty (SDG 1) and promote food security (SDG 2) through inclusive opportunities. Additionally, through this united collaboration, we exemplify SDG 17, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in driving meaningful and sustainable change
Pix: Helen
“As we engage today, let us renew our collective commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces where every individual, regardless of gender, can access education, thrive, and build a future free of violence. Together, we can turn our shared vision into enduring progress., she said.
ABOUT GIZ:
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH is a German federal enterprise with worldwide operations. The organisation implements projects for the German Government, EU and other donors in international cooperation for sustainable development.
About SKYE II Nigeria:
The programme “Skills Development for Youth Employment – SKYE II” focuses on improving the prospects of gainful employment for Nigerian youth in selected sectors of the economy. It aims to achieve this objective by supporting the establishment of an efficient TVET system, active labour market integration measures and enhanced cooperative structures between government institutions and the private sector.
SKYE II is active in various states in Nigeria, including Abuja FCT, Edo State, Enugu State, Lagos State, Ogun State and Plateau State. The programme is implemented on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Swiss Agency
In attendance were the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs,and Social Development,Mrs. Ngozi Eni, who waa represented by the permanent Secretary, Egbo, representatives of the GIZ SKYE Program Enugu State Coordinator, Mr. Stephen Agwu, GIZ Gender Component Manager, Ms Helen Igboka.
Others are Enugu state Project Coordinator, Agency for Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment , Dr. Ebele Georgina Chukwu Onuorah., and STSMB Director, Barrister Mrs. Ngozi Chibuoke.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama