In a significant step toward combating gender-based violence (GBV) in schools, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has integrated GBV prevention measures into educational programs.
This initiative aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge, skills, and resources to identify, resist, and ultimately eliminate GBV in their communities.
Collaborative Efforts in GBV Prevention
The NGEC, in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has developed innovative interventions to curb GBV in schools and communities.
These measures include the incorporation of karate training for self-defense, the use of drama and arts as educational tools, and leveraging sports to promote awareness.
Additionally, the initiative has facilitated the training of 30 primary and secondary school teachers, as well as college lecturers in Machakos County, through a Trainers of Teachers (TOT) program focused on GBV awareness and prevention strategies.
NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa, speaking at Machakos Teachers College during the “Empowering Education Against GBV” workshop under the NGEC-JICA GBV elimination project, highlighted the critical role of education in challenging harmful societal norms that perpetuate GBV.
“By focusing on education, we are taking proactive steps to dismantle harmful stereotypes, cultural norms, and inequities that fuel GBV. This initiative empowers individuals to recognize, resist, and prevent violence in all its forms,” said Jaldesa.
Addressing the Rising Cases of GBV
Jaldesa noted that GBV cases have been on the rise in Kenya, affecting individuals across all genders, ages, and backgrounds. The consequences often leave deep physical and psychological scars that are difficult to heal.
Recognizing the urgency of the issue, she emphasized that education must serve as a key tool in fostering safer environments for learners.
The NGEC-JICA GBV prevention project has already been implemented in Machakos, Kajiado, and Nairobi counties, showing promising results, particularly within schools.
Plans are underway to scale the initiative to additional regions to ensure a broader impact.
“The strategies we are implementing are yielding positive results. By integrating GBV prevention into education, we can work towards a future where everyone lives free from violence and discrimination,” Jaldesa affirmed.
Launch of a School Policy on GBV Prevention
A major highlight of the workshop was the official launch of the “School Policy on Prevention & Response to GBV” by NGEC.
This comprehensive policy provides a structured framework for schools in Machakos County and beyond to effectively prevent, respond to, and manage GBV cases.
It ensures that schools are not only centers for academic learning but also safe spaces where students can thrive without fear.
Call for Stakeholder Involvement
Jaldesa urged various stakeholders, including county governments, education ministries, and the national government, to remain steadfast in their commitment to eliminating GBV.
She also announced plans to launch a book that will offer support to GBV survivors while advocating for the establishment of safe houses to accommodate victims.
NGEC Commissioner Mbithuka Nzomo emphasized the need for schools, organizations, and communities to develop and facilitate safe spaces where children and youth feel comfortable speaking up about their experiences.
He urged teachers to remain vigilant and responsive to behavioral changes in learners as an early intervention strategy.
“Children speak up when they feel safe, and it is our responsibility to facilitate such environments to enable timely intervention and protection,” Nzomo stated.
Future Prospects
The NGEC-JICA partnership continues to strengthen GBV prevention in learning institutions through structured teacher training, self-defense programs, enhanced reporting mechanisms, and policy implementation.
Educators, parents, and policymakers must actively participate in enforcing these measures to transform schools into GBV-free zones.
As the initiative expands, it is expected to significantly contribute to fostering an educational environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive without the fear of violence or discrimination.
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