On Friday, May 16th, the Sierra Leone Free Equality Education Project successfully wrapped up an essential training session for the Local Mediation Committee (LMC) focused on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

The training aimed to strengthen accountability systems within the Sierra Leone Free Education Project (FEPS) and enhance the overall functionality of the LMC.

Mr. Gerald A. Foday, who provided an overview of the session, highlighted its primary goals, which included:

  • Deepening stakeholders’ understanding of project objectives.
  • Clarifying roles and responsibilities within the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM).
  • Establishing effective mechanisms for timely reporting and feedback.
  • Promoting innovative strategies for mainstreaming the GRM in project implementation.
  • Addressing emerging challenges in project execution.

Participants engaged in comprehensive discussions about the complexities of SGBV, the relevant legal frameworks, effective mediation techniques, and the National Referral Protocol. They gained valuable insights into the various forms of SGBV and its profound impacts on individuals and communities, especially within school environments.

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Lead facilitator Mr. Edmond J. Momoh emphasized the importance of adhering to national laws regarding SGBV, enabling the committee to operate within legal boundaries while advocating for the rights of children and survivors. He underscored the necessity of involving the broader community in prevention efforts to foster a collective responsibility against SGBV.

The training concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to act as advocates for change within their communities, striving to create a safer and more equitable environment for all.