GIT, PPE Lead the Way in GBV Awareness

 GIT, PPE Lead the Way in GBV Awareness

By Our Reporter

Deogratius Temba

Positive Peace Ethiopia (PPE) and Global Impact Transformation (GIT) held an important Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness session at Vision Academy Elementary School. The session was part of a broader commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. It also aligned with the African Union’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence as part of its Agenda 2063 for peace and prosperity in Africa.

 

The initiative aimed to educate the school community, including students and staff, on the various forms of GBV and how to effectively prevent and report such incidents. The session was designed to foster a safer and more respectful school environment by engaging everyone in crucial discussions about the long-term sustainability of the program.

 

A preliminary meeting was held with the school’s principal, Ato Biniyam, where he expressed his commitment to the initiative. "This program is vital in creating a safe space for our students," Ato Biniyam stated. "I will discuss its continuation with our higher administration to ensure its lasting impact." He further assured the facilitators that feedback would be provided during a follow-up meeting, highlighting his dedication to ensuring the program's success.

 

The GBV awareness session was led by Femihot Bogale, an experienced facilitator, with training coordinated by Chalachew Worku, Founding CEO of PPE. The session was interactive, with participants learning about the different forms of GBV, including physical, verbal, and emotional abuse, as well as cyberbullying. Prevention strategies such as promoting respect and empathy were emphasized, along with the importance of timely reporting of incidents.

 

“Students and teachers must collectively contribute to preventing GBV,” said Femihot Bogale. “Education is the most powerful tool in combating gender-based violence, and through initiatives like this, we can create a culture of respect and accountability.”

 

GIT’s commitment to peacebuilding and tackling GBV as part of its broader efforts to create peaceful and inclusive societies was reinforced throughout the session. This initiative supports GIT’s mission of fostering community resilience and promoting gender justice. As part of its ongoing commitment, GIT will continue to collaborate with schools and other local organizations to provide training and resources on preventing GBV and supporting victims.

 

The GBV awareness session at Vision Academy Elementary School marked a successful step toward fostering a safer environment for both students and staff. The active participation and commitment from all involved parties, especially Principal Ato Biniyam, ensure the program’s potential for long-term success. PPE and GIT look forward to continuing their partnership with the school to promote ongoing awareness and action against gender-based violence, in line with global, regional, and local commitments to gender equality and peacebuilding.