CATAI Flags Off Multi-Sectoral Initiative, Together with Partners, to Ensure Safety of Women and Girls in Borno from Gender-Based Violence in Education Facilities

In collaboration with Unique Care and Support Foundation (CASFOD) and Frad Foundation, Centre for Advocacy, Transparency, and Accountability Initiative (CATAI) recently convened a pivotal three-day inception meeting to mark the commencement of a transformative project funded by the Nigerian Humanitarian Fund (NHF).

The project, titled “Ensuring Multi-Sectoral Approach for Protection of Women and Girls from Gender-Based Violence in Education facilities across 6 LGAs of Borno, NE Nigeria,” aims to enhance the protective factors for women and girls by bolstering access to safe and quality formal and non-formal education within secure learning environments.

Our comprehensive program strategy involves engaging key community-based structures such as youth groups, women’s associations, and School-Based Management Committees (SBMCs) at the grassroots level. These groups will undergo extensive training on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and response, empowering them to spearhead initiatives within their communities.

Furthermore, CATAl and Partners will provide support for scholastic materials, refurbishment of toilet facilities, and the integration of out-of-school children into formal education settings.

The project’s multi-sectoral approach is designed to directly benefit 9,353 individuals, including persons living with disabilities, across six local government areas (LGAs) in Borno State: Magumeri, Mobbar, Bama, Ngala, Jere, and Konduga. The selection of these LGAs aligns with an area-based approach outlined in the Humanitarian Response Plan.

During the inception meeting, various stakeholders, including government representatives, education sector leaders, and humanitarian agencies, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in prioritizing the protection of women and girls.

“We want to provide education facilities that have all the necessary resources to significantly contribute to the access to education for both males and females, without issues of Gender-Based Violence. We are trying to implement mechanisms that will address all factors leading to Gender-Based Violence.” – Said Abubakar Sadiq Muazu, Executive Director of CATAI.

“We are going to work with community members and stakeholders to ensure we improve child and community participation to bring an end or reduce the risk of GBV in communities.” – Benjamin John, Executive Director of CASFOD.

“We recognize the vulnerability of children, especially girls and those with disabilities, who are the most vulnerable. They do not have the means to attend school, being displaced.” – Muhammad Riaz, Sector Coordinator, Education in Emergency.

With a shared objective to expand access to GBV and child protection programs, CATAI and its partners are committed to fostering inclusive learning environments that empower women and girls to fulfill their potential.

Together, we are paving the way for a brighter, safer future for communities in Borno State, where every child has the opportunity to thrive.