National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has integrated Gender Based Violence (GBV) measures into educational activities and programmes in school curricula because to impart individuals and learners with knowledge, resources and skills to recognise, resist and end GBV.

NGEC in collaboration with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have come up with ideas and interventions that support the prevention of GBV in schools and communities such as use of marshal training programme, drama and sports following a trainers of teachers (TOT) training for 30 primary and secondary school teachers in Machakos County as well as college lecturers on effective GBV training and prevention.

NGEC Chair Rehema Jaldesa, who addressed a workshop at Machakos Teachers College for empowering education against GBV under NGEC-JICA GBV elimination project, said that GBV is a great violation of human rights and is also a barrier to gender equality and education plays a crucial part in challenging norms and behaviours promoting GBV.

“By focusing on education, we are taking proactive steps to dismantle the harmful stereotypes, cultural norms and inequities that fuel GBV and empowering individuals to recognise, resist and prevent violence in all its forms,” said Rehema.

The chair observed that GBV is on high rise and spreading widely in Kenya especially in the past week as it impacts individuals of all genders, ages and backgrounds, which often leave physical and psychological scars that are difficult to heal and forget.

Rehema pointed out that through the NGEC-JICA GBV project some of the ideas have are being implemented in Machakos, Kajiado and Nairobi counties, and the results are promising.

“The strategies are yielding positive results and by integrating GBV prevention into education curriculum, we can work towards a future where everyone lives free from violence and discrimination,” she said.

The chair disclosed that the commission and JICA will soon launch a book that supports survivors of GBV as the government explores possibilities of having safe houses to accommodate victims of GBV.

She appealed to stakeholders in county government, education and national government to remain resolute in driving positive change.

A commissioner from NGEC Mbithuka Nzomo said there is a need for schools, organisations and communities to develop and facilitate a safe space for children and youths to speak up. Nzomo added that teachers need to be alert on changes in their learners for early intervention and prevention of GBV.

“Kids speak up when there is safe space for them and we need to facilitate that so that we can intervene,” Commissioner Nzomo.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Anne Kangero