The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) on Tuesday continued its Safeguarding the Rights of a Child (STRAC) interactive workshop for Primary School Students at Christ Church Cathedral School, Lagos Island.
Addressing participants, comprising 250 Primary School Students drawn from 11 Primary Schools in the Lagos Island area, the Education Secretary of Lagos Island Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), Hon. Mobolaji Qudus
stated that the purpose of the workshop is to equip the students with the knowledge on how to safeguard themselves from evil people in society and to sensitise them on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.
Hon. Mobolaji Qudus, who was represented by the HOS, School Support, Mr. Emmanuel Ogundipe, further urged the students to be confident in speaking up whenever they are abused.
While making use of the STRAC textbook for children, the first facilitator at the workshop, Miss. Zainab Alaka engaged the students in an interactive session on their Fundamental Human Rights, including their right to life, right to education, right to a name, right to a peaceful home and their right to live free from all forms of violence amongst others. she further explained that children are also expected to respect their parents and elders as well as obey the law.
Alaka, therefore, urged the students to speak up if they ever experience any form of abuse or know anyone experiencing the abuse by calling the DSVA toll-free line; 08000333333.
The second session of the workshop was facilitated by Mr. Damilare Adewusi, Head of Community Engagement, DSVA, who spoke on the underwear rule: P- Private parts are private, A- Always remember that your body belongs to you, N- No means no, T- Talk about secrets that upset you, S-Speak up, so someone can help you (PANTS).
He said the rule teaches children that their body belongs to them, they have a right to say no and that they should tell an adult if they are upset or worried.
