Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa
The Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation (ENWAF) has extended its digital protection and gender based violence awareness campaign to community secondary school, Igbogene, in Yenagoa local government Area of Bayelsa state,the initiative aimed at educating students on digital violence responsible online conduct, and the importance of reporting abusive situations.
Held on monday the enlightenment programme brought together students, teachers and facilitators for an engaging interactive session that addressed the rising incidents of cyberbullying and online harassment affecting young people.
Speaking at the event, the founder and chief executive officer of ENWAF, lady Eunice Nnachi, highlighted the theme of this year’s advocacy activities,she stressed the need for young people to speak out whenever they encounter any form of physical or online violence, according to her, many teenagers suffer in silence due to fear of judgement or uncertainty about where to seek help.
“Silence often protects abusers, while speaking up opens the door for timely intervention,no young person should feel ashamed or afraid to ask for help,” she urged, encouraging students to confide in trusted adults school authorities parents or organisations dedicated to child protection.
The ENWAF secretary, Mrs Ebizimo Agedah, also addressed the students, focusing on responsible online behaviour,she encouraged them to “pause and think before sharing” anything on social media, noting that pictures, videos or comments posted online may remain accessible for years and could later affect their reputation, education or career prospects, she further warned that sharing sensitive content about others without permission constitutes digital abuse.
ENWAF’s media and publicity officer, Mrs Elizabeth Joseph, spoke on the emotional and social impact of digital violence,she described cyberbullying and online threats as growing concerns among teenagers, capable of causing emotional distress, loss of confidence and social withdrawal,she urged students to treat others with kindness online and to report harmful behaviour immediately.
The Principal of Community Secondary School, Igbogene, Mr Ajeh Taripriye, expressed gratitude to the foundation for choosing the school for the sensitisation programme.
“He acknowledged that digital safety has become a major concern in secondary schools and called for increased support from government and community stakeholders to enable ENWAF reach more schools.”
Students who participated in the event expressed enthusiasm, noting that the discussions opened their eyes to the dangers associated with careless online engagement.
The programme forms part of ENWAF’s ongoing commitment to promoting the rights, safety and wellbeing of women, girls and young people across Bayelsa State.
