Did you know that over 246 million children worldwide experience gender-based violence in and around schools every year, according to UNESCO? This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of addressing this global issue, which was at the heart of a transformative event held at American Corner Agbogba on November 26, 2024.
Marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the American Center-U.S Embassy Ghana and American Corner Agbogba brought together educators, students, civil society organizations (CSOs), and thought leaders for an insightful program. With the theme “End Impunity: Advocate Against School-Related Gender-Based Violence,” the event aimed to ignite action, empower participants, and foster solutions for safer learning environments.
The event began with warm opening remarks by Florence Toffa, Director of Mobile Web Ghana and American Corner Agbogba. She highlighted the importance of partnerships in combating school-related gender-based violence, emphasizing that schools should be safe havens where students can learn and thrive without fear.
It was an honor to have three representatives from the U.S. Embassy Ghana join the event, including Liza Steger, Regional Public Engagement Specialist. Their presence highlighted the global importance of addressing gender-based violence and reinforced the need for collaborative efforts.
Engaging Presentations by Experts
Three dynamic speakers took the stage, delivering insightful presentations that captivated the audience:
Regina Asamoah, Founder of Missing Children Ghana and recipient of the IVLP Impact Award, shared her work on empowering boys and girls to combat gender-based violence. She provided practical strategies and personal anecdotes, motivating participants to take proactive steps in their communities.
Dr. Dzifa Attah, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, spoke about the devastating psychological impacts of school-related gender-based violence. Her presentation emphasized the importance of addressing mental health concerns and fostering a culture of respect and safety in schools.
Prof. Samuel Kwofie, Head of the Biomedical Engineering Department at the University of Ghana, explored the role of technology in preventing and addressing gender-based violence. From reporting tools to awareness campaigns, he illustrated how innovation can be a powerful ally in advocacy.
The event featured interactive discussions where participants shared personal stories, asked questions, and proposed solutions. Students, teachers, and CSOs collaborated to identify actionable steps for addressing the root causes of school-related gender-based violence.
Liza Steger In her closing remarks commended the speakers for their insightful contributions and the participants for their active engagement. She reinforced the Embassy’s dedication to supporting initiatives that address gender-based violence..
The partnership between Mobile Web Ghana, American Corner Agbogba, and the U.S. Embassy Ghana continues to drive initiatives that promote safe, inclusive, and gender-equitable educational environments.
