Over 160 students at Assalam Girls Secondary School in Zomba District took part in an interactive Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness session organized by the Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO), aimed at empowering young girls with knowledge and courage to combat GBV in their communities.
The session, held at the school campus, focused on equipping students with an understanding of what constitutes gender-based violence, its different forms, and its impact on individuals and society. Facilitators guided lively discussions on how GBV manifests in everyday life and the importance of recognizing early warning signs.
Participants were also urged to challenge the culture of silence that often surrounds GBV. The facilitators emphasized the importance of reporting cases, supporting victims, and creating safe spaces within schools and communities.
“This session has opened my eyes. I’ve learned that even small things we ignore, like verbal abuse or controlling behavior, are forms of GBV. Now I know that keeping quiet only protects the abuser, not the victim.” said Memory Phiri, a Form 3 student.
YONECO officers encouraged the girls to be champions of change by standing up for their rights and those of their peers. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to continue reaching out to schools and communities to promote gender equality and eliminate all forms of violence.
#EndGBV | #PreventGBV | #GirlsRightsAreHumanRights
