ACFODE Empowers GBV Clubs in Secondary Schools Take the Lead in the Prevention and Handling of GBV cases.

Under the project "Advocating for Gender and Reproductive Rights", ACFODE with support from UNFPA and UWONET facilitated the development of 32 Gender Based Violence (GBV) clubs in selected schools throughout the districts of Moroto, Yumbe, Kotido, Kaabong, Kanungu, Oyam, Katakwi and Mubende. The main objective of these clubs was to aid in increasing students and school administrators access to quality GBV management services.

Members of the GBV club in Katakwi High School performing
 a skit they composed called "Daddy Stop Beating Mummy"

Over time, the GBV clubs in each of the schools have carried out successful advocacy drives throughout their campuses, effectively changing attitudes about GBV and gender equality amongst both the peers as well as the various school administrations. Through experience sharing/training workshops held in the various districts and schools from 3^rd-20^th, the full positive impact of the clubs on the schools and communities were realised. Some of the positive outcomes include;

• Growing influence of GBV clubs in persuading school administrators to carry out their roles and responsibilities in the fight against GBV.
• Open sharing of SGBV cases and referral pathways during GBV club meetings have reduced the rate of teacher-student abuse cases for fear of redress by the clubs.
• The distribution of posters, fliers and other Behavioral Change (BCC) materials has raised awareness among GBV club members to persistently and effectively raise their voices against GBV in their schools and communities.
• The open sharing structure of the GBV clubs has enabled the students address real issues affecting them as well as the negative impact of GBV including contraction of HIV/AIDS, and dropping out of school, thus promoting a culture of self preservation.
• GBV clubs have advocated successfully for the introduction of Counseling and guidance services in their schools to aid in redress of GBV cases.
• Some GBV clubs have partnered with other school clubs, such as Debate clubs, Red Cross and Music Dance and Drama clubs to raise awareness on GBV more effectively.

Compiled by:

Nancy Nandudu

Public Relations and Communications Officer

Action For Development