By Udeme Hosea
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Akwa Ibom State Chapter in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, last Friday marked the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence at Nduo Eduo High School, Okon, Eket Local Government Area.
The sensitization program sponsored by the Commissioner Representing Akwa Ibom State in Niger Delta Development Commission Governing Board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, aimed to educate students about Gender Based Violence and its impact on individuals and the society.
Addressing the students at the Assembly ground, NAWOJ State Chairperson, Comrade Nsikak Okon, emphasized the importance of rejecting violence and reporting Gender Based Violence cases to the authorities for prompt action.
She explained that the year’s theme, “Unite to End Digital Violence against All Persons,” highlights the need for collective action against Gender Based Violence and announced to the students that, the Akwa Ibom State Government has enacted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, providing a framework for preventing and responding to Gender Based Violence cases.
In his remarks, the principal of Nduo Eduo High School, Mr. Patrick Ukpong, appreciated NAWOJ’s efforts in curbing the menace of Gender Based Violence and appealed for more sensitization.
The team also visited Community Secondary School, Ikot Usen, Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, where sections of the VAPP law were read to the students, along with penalties for each offense.
NAWOJ also distributed sanitary wares to both boys and girls to promote personal hygiene and inclusivity.
Students from both schools thanked NAWOJ for the visit and promised to maintain good conduct.