Delay Marriage Promote Schooling for Ugandan Girls

Greetings,

We are pleased to share with you the outcomes of our recent sensitization program conducted at St. James Secondary School on gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC), as well as strategies for prevention. Joy for Children Uganda is committed to promoting the well-being and safety of children and adolescents, and our efforts at St. James SS reflect this dedication.

Our primary objectives for the sensitization program at St. James SS were: To raise awareness among students about the prevalence and consequences of GBV and VAC, to educate students on strategies for preventing and responding to instances of GBV and VAC and to empower students with knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their peers from harm.

Despite facing challenges such as limited resources and a small student population, we successfully conducted a series of interactive workshops and discussions with the seven students currently enrolled at St. James SS. Topics covered included: Definition and types of GBV and VAC, warning signs and risk factors associated with GBV and VAC, importance of consent and healthy relationships, and available support services and reporting mechanisms.

Despite the small cohort of students, our sensitization efforts yielded meaningful results:

Students demonstrated a heightened understanding of the different forms of GBV and VAC, as well as their rights and responsibilities in preventing and responding to such incidents.

Students reported feeling empowered to speak out against violence and advocate for the safety and well-being of themselves and their peers.

Our presence at St. James SS sparked discussions within the school community about the importance of addressing GBV and VAC, leading to increased awareness and support for preventive measures.

One significant challenge we encountered was the high rate of student absenteeism due to financial constraints, with eight out of fifteen students sent home for fees. To address this issue, we are exploring strategies to provide financial assistance or alternative learning opportunities for affected students to ensure they receive the support and education they deserve.

We invite you to join us in our mission to prevent GBV and VAC and promote the well-being of children and adolescents in Uganda. Your support will enable us to continue conducting sensitization programs, providing resources, and advocating for policy changes to protect the rights of young people.

In conclusion, we extend our sincere gratitude to you, our valued donors, for your unwavering support and commitment to our cause. Together, we can create safer and more inclusive environments where every child can thrive.