Education plays a pivotal role in preventing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) by fostering awareness, promoting gender equality, and equipping individuals with the skills to challenge harmful norms.

In Nigeria, efforts to address sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in schools include establishing gender desks, creating student clubs, and training teachers. However, challenges remain, including a lack of reporting structures and a lack of training for teachers.

Nevertheless, irrespective of the challenges, knowledge is power and EDUCATION remains key to driving awareness about SGBV.

Here’s how education can contribute to preventing SGBV: 

1. Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE): Integrating CSE into school curricula provides students with accurate information about human development, sexual rights, and gender equality. Studies have shown that programs addressing gender and power relations are more effective in reducing teen pregnancies, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Creating educational programs that use interactive lessons can enhance students’ confidence in resisting sexual pressure and coercion.  

2. Promotion of Gender Equality: Educational initiatives that challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes are essential in preventing SGBV. Programs like “Program H and M” in Brazil engage young men and women in activities that promote gender-equitable attitudes and behaviors, which can lead to a reduction in gender-based violence.  

3. Life Skills and Relationship Education: Teaching life skills, including communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution, empower individuals to navigate relationships respectfully. Programs to educate students on healthy relationships can result in a significant decrease in dating violence among participants.  

4. Engaging Men and Boys: Involving men and boys in discussions about SGBV is crucial for societal change. Initiatives that educate males on the impact of their behavior and promote positive masculinity can lead to a decrease in violence. However, achieving this requires overcoming cultural norms and ensuring that educational programs are comprehensive and inclusive.  

5. Creating Safe Educational Environments: Schools that implement policies and programs addressing abusive behaviors and sexism contribute to a safer learning environment. Educating students about respectful relationships helps in preventing violence and promoting gender equality.  

6. Addressing Harmful Online Cultures: With the rise of online misogynistic subcultures, educational institutions need to take proactive steps to identify and address such influences. Training teachers to recognize signs of harmful online behaviors and incorporating digital literacy into the curriculum can prevent the spread of toxic ideologies.  

7. Empowering Girls and Preventing Exploitation: Educating girls is a powerful tool against exploitation and violence. In conflict-affected regions, girls’ education has been linked to a reduction in child marriage and sex trafficking. Empowered with knowledge, girls are better equipped to protect themselves and advocate for their rights. 

ACTION STEPS

The Nigerian government has approved a bill to include preventive measures on SGBV in the curriculum of all secondary schools.  More countries need to include the teaching of SGBV into their educational curriculum and teacher training programs. 

Beyond the curriculum, schools should have well-structured services, like gender desks, where students can report SGBV. There should be a deliberate creation of student clubs where awareness about SGBV is raised, and students are encouraged to report cases.

Schools should create clear structures for reporting abuse and regular training of teachers on how to handle cases of SGBV. Schools can also provide counseling services and referrals and carry out training for teachers on how to provide appropriate counseling services to pupils at all times. 

In conclusion, education serves as a critical foundation for preventing SGBV by promoting informed, respectful, and equitable attitudes and behaviors. By integrating comprehensive sexuality education, challenging harmful gender norms, and fostering safe environments, societies can work towards reducing instances of SGBV and promoting gender equality.