A non-governmental organisation, the Sexual Offences Awareness Response Initiative, has sensitised Junior Secondary School Durumi II, Abuja students to sexual violence in commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.

SOAR Initiative’s Project Officer, Levi Yakubu, coordinated the exercise on Friday in Abuja.

He emphasised the need to protect girls’ rights and ensure a safe environment for them to achieve their dreams.

Mr Yakubu said, “We’re working in communities and schools to educate adolescent girls on child sexual abuse, building their capacity to recognise it as a violation of their rights and against the state.”

He stated that most girls were unaware of the meaning of sexual abuse until it happens, noting that stigma and fear often silence them.

On her part, a counsellor and medical sociologist, Peninah Yemmah, stressed the importance of teaching girls their rights and worth to prevent abuse.

She said, “Sexual abuse thrives in silence; girls must speak up and seek help to avoid depression.”

Also, the school’s Vice Principal, Temitope Olorode, commended SOAR Initiative empowerment programme.

“Speak up against inappropriate behaviour, avoid compromising situations, and report incidents to school administration,” he said.

Some of the participants identified poverty, sexual abuse, and marginalisation as barriers to achieving greatness. They appealed for support and a conducive environment to thrive.

The school’s Head Girl, Praise Okorule, and Assistant Head, Girl Zubaida Abdulrahim, stated that they benefited immensely from the programme.

(NAN)