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In a bid to tackle sexual and gender-based violence alongside rising drug abuse, the Pujehun District Women Advocacy Forum (PUDWAF) engaged students from Gallines Perri, Gapefu, and Malen Secondary Schools as part of its ongoing 16 Days of Activism campaign.
Issa Bendu, PUDWAF’s program lead, emphasized the importance of child protection at the forefront of their advocacy. He highlighted the organization’s collaboration with various stakeholders to safeguard children’s rights and welfare. While acknowledging that government laws exist to protect women and children from domestic violence and sexual abuse, Bendu stressed the need for increased vigilance and proactive measures.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, he said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” underscoring the role of awareness in preventing sexual and gender-based violence. Bendu identified poverty as a key factor contributing to early marriages and sexual harassment among youth.
Addressing the rising trend of drug abuse, Bendu noted that lack of parental care and exposure to narcotics such as tramadol and kush were driving youth involvement in crime, school dropouts, and declining academic performance in national examinations.
Madam Bonnie Sakpa, another speaker at the event, warned students about the dangers of drug use and urged them to report drug importers and sellers to the authorities. “With the support of our children, we can eradicate the intake of kush and other narcotic drugs by exposing those responsible,” she asserted.
Sidie Jah, Assistant Program Manager at PUDWAF, addressed the issue of child marriage, emphasizing that no child should be subjected to early marriage. He referenced a recently passed parliamentary bill prohibiting individuals under 18 from marrying and reminded parents that facilitating such practices carries severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
The three-day engagement concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, allowing students to voice concerns and seek clarification on issues discussed. The initiative reinforced PUDWAF’s mission to raise awareness, foster a culture of protection, and equip youth with the knowledge to combat sexual and gender-based violence and drug abuse in their communities.
Through programs like this, PUDWAF continues to empower the younger generation, encouraging active participation in promoting safety, rights, and well-being for all children in Pujehun District.
