On the occasion of the 16 Days of Activism, Equipop presents the Young Leaders for Advocacy (JLP) and their work: 30 young Nigeriens, mobilized to ensure that public school regulations prevent, protect against, and address gender-based and sexual violence.
For two years, Equipop has supported the JLP in their advocacy against gender-based and sexual violence (GBV): workshops, WhatsApp discussions on sexism, encouragement to take initiative, public speaking coaching, communication skills training, etc. This technical, operational, and thematic support has resulted in the strengthening of the collective and individual power of all these young women and men—as part of the Jades II project and in partnership with the NGOs Lafia Matassa and Solthis.
VSS, a widespread problem in Nigerien schools
In all the schools visited by the JLP for their investigation, gender-based and sexual violence are present. The figures speak for themselves: [vc_column width= »1/3″]
The consequences of this violence are serious in terms of health (mental and physical), education (failure and dropping out of school), and failure to protect the rights of children and girls. The taboo surrounding the subject and the stigmatization of victims are obstacles to speaking out and identifying the phenomenon. According to the survey, while students mainly cite their peers as perpetrators, teachers are also responsible for violence. In the very rare cases where teachers are charged, impunity is the norm. The government must take action to ensure that both girls and boys can learn in safety. In light of the figures and testimonies, the JLP is calling on the Ministry of Education to review the internal regulations of public secondary schools.
#ZeroViolence: two weeks to break the taboo
In order to encourage people to speak out and call on the authorities to address the situation, last October the JLP conducted a communication campaign intense and mobilizing around the results of their investigation and their advocacy demands. On Facebook, Twitter Through the media and the involvement of influential figures with large social media followings, the #ZeroViolence campaign reached nearly 200,000 people and drew significant attention from the Ministry of Education. The campaign generated numerous digital exchanges, particularly during a Tweetup. The campaign helped to inform and raise awareness, but also highlighted the majority support of the general public, and in particular young Nigeriens, for the JLP's approach.
A face-to-face meeting to ask the authorities to take action
This advocacy by and for young people has mobilized and continues to mobilize young people and the Department of Education. Indeed, October 20The JLP presented their work and campaign to members of the Niamey and Maradi ministries, as well as representatives of parents and journalists. All of them are lending their support to the JLPs. Meetings with the Director of the School Management Support Division (DAGE), the Secretary General, and the Minister of Education are currently being planned.On Wednesday, December 13, the Young Leaders for Advocacy will meet with the Minister of Education to share their proposed amendments to the internal regulations (decree 0064).
