Youths to Tackle Harmful Gender Stereotypes in Kaduna…..Lauds Beulah Foundation

By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna

Following a two-day intensive training to empower adolescents and young adults in Kaduna State with the knowledge and skills to strengthen their self-esteem and become advocates for improved access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV), the youths have pledged to tackle harmful gender stereotypes in their communities.

The training which was organized by Beulah Future Leaders Foundation in collaboration with Enhancing Communities Action for Peace and Better Health Initiative (e-CAPH), with support from United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), was aimed at equipping them with tools and insights to champion the fight SGBV within their communities.

The 40 young people drown from Narayi, Janruwa, Angwa Boro and Television village are part of the 80 participants that benefited from the training in Igabi and Chikun Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Kaduna State.

While speaking after the training sessions, some of the participants expressed their gratitude to the organizers and pledged to tackle harmful gender stereotypes and promote safe practices in their communities.

According to Solomon Sarah, challenging harmful gender stereotypes through open discussion engagements about gender equality, consent, and respectful behavior which would reduce the rate of SGBV in Kaduna communities.

She noted that SGBV and gender inequalities is at the root cause of most challenges facing women and young girls in the society.

Another young person Irmiya marvelous, believed that with his knowledge as a peer educator, he will be able to provide accurate information, promote safe practices, and empower others young people in his community.

He added that the training also equipped him on public speaking skills through group exercises and that he now has the ability and courage share informed sexual and reproductive health information with people in his community.

Speaking during the training, Co-founder of Beulah Future Leaders Foundation, Koni Wendy Bakka, noted that the trained advocates will emerge as change-makers, influencing their peers and communities positively.

“They will act as role models and mentors, inspiring others to join the fight against SGBV and advocate for SRH rights.

“Through increased awareness and advocacy, we aim to significantly reduce incidents of sexual and gender-based violence, ultimately creating safer and more supportive communities.

“By actively promoting gender equality and SRH rights, we are contributing to a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their gender.” She explained.

Koni, aded that as a result of the kind of information shared with the young people, it is anticipated that there will be a notable increase in the number of individuals seeking assistance at sexual assault referral centers in the State.

“By raising awareness and dispelling stigma, our trained advocates will encourage survivors to access these vital services promptly and without fear.

“As a direct result of this initiative, communities will experience improved access to high-quality sexual and reproductive health services. Our advocates will play a pivotal role in disseminating accurate information and ensuring that essential SRH services are available and accessible to all, irrespective of age or gender.” Koni said.