Twelve teachers from ten schools in the Greater Accra Region have been trained as Gender Advocates to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in schools.
The training was part of the “Young Voices Matter: Empowering Boys and Girls in the Fight Against GBV” project, led by Regina Asamoah, an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Impact Awardee.
The project is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Educational and Cultural Affairs, with Meridian International Center serving as the implementing partner.
The comprehensive training covered essential aspects of GBV, including understanding its dynamics, recognizing psychological impacts, leveraging technology for intervention, and employing age-appropriate communication strategies.
ACP (Rtd.) Dr. Patience Quaye led the session on understanding GBV, emphasizing that GBV is a crime and highlighting the importance of educating learners, supporting survivors, and ensuring perpetrators face justice.
Dr. Dzifa Abrah Attah facilitated the session on the psychological impacts of GBV, guiding teachers in identifying psychological traits in learners that may indicate they are experiencing GBV and teaching them how to provide emotional and psychological support.
Prof. Samuel Kojo Kwofie educated teachers on the use of technology to address GBV, emphasizing the role of technology in preventing GBV, creating safe spaces, and supporting survivors.
Regina Asamoah conducted a session on effective communication strategies for addressing GBV in schools, introducing the Role-Playing Teaching Technique as an effective tool for age-appropriate and inclusive communication.
The trained teachers expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights and knowledge gained during the workshop, stating they are now well-prepared to take on their new roles as Gender Advocates.
The next steps in the “Young Voices Matter” project include GBV sensitization programs in schools and the development of educational documentaries on GBV, drawing from the various engagements with teachers and students.
