Lagos Takes Campaign Against Sexual Abuse To Schools

The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board has launched a statewide sensitisation campaign to protect pupils from sexual abuse and educate girls in public primary schools on personal safety, body protection and menstrual hygiene, the board said in a statement on Sunday.

The advocacy programme, organised by LASUBEB, brought together education stakeholders, teachers and child protection advocates to equip pupils with the knowledge to recognise abuse, protect themselves and report inappropriate behaviour, while promoting healthy hygiene practices.

 

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Speaking at the event, Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Hakeem Shittu, represented by board member, Adewale Babatunde, said the board remained committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment where every child could learn without fear.

He said the Lagos State Government maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual abuse, exploitation and every form of violence against children.

“Safeguarding our pupils is a shared responsibility. Parents, teachers, communities and government all have critical roles to play in protecting children from abuse,” he said.

Shittu also acknowledged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising child-centred policies and sustained investment in the basic education sector.

According to him, the government’s commitment reflects its belief that every child deserves a secure environment in which to develop academically, socially and emotionally.

Also speaking, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic Education, Yewande Jeje, said the programme formed part of the second phase of the state’s intervention to strengthen child protection and improve the wellbeing of pupils across public schools.

She encouraged the girls to remain confident, understand their rights and promptly report any form of abuse to trusted adults and appropriate authorities.

“You must never keep quiet when anyone makes you uncomfortable. Speak up, protect yourselves and report every form of abuse to trusted adults and the appropriate authorities,” she said.

Jeje assured the pupils that the Lagos State Government would continue implementing policies and programmes aimed at ensuring every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment.

The advocacy also featured practical sessions by child development and health experts.

A counsellor, Dr Yemi Ayemoba, educated the pupils on body autonomy, personal boundaries and strategies for preventing sexual abuse.

She urged the girls to recognise inappropriate behaviour, resist attempts at abuse and seek immediate help from trusted adults whenever they feel threatened.

“No one has the right to touch your body inappropriately. Learn to say no, move away from unsafe situations and immediately inform someone you trust,” she said.

Health educator Ruth Oladoye delivered a session on personal and menstrual hygiene, educating the pupils on healthy hygiene practices, menstrual care and habits necessary for maintaining their physical and emotional wellbeing.

She stressed the importance of cleanliness and proper menstrual hygiene management in helping girls remain healthy, confident and focused on their education.

To reinforce the lessons from the programme, LASUBEB distributed hygiene packs containing essential personal care items to all participating pupils.

The board said the initiative forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen child safeguarding in public primary schools while promoting the health, safety and dignity of the girl child across Lagos State.

 

Categories: Education, News