Gender Advocates Have Called For Strict Measures That Would Protect The Girl Child From Gender-Based Violence, Peer Pressure, and Online Harassment.
They Are Also Pushing For Stronger Measures That Would Create More Opportunities For Girls To Acquire Skills And Build Independent Future.
Speaking At An Event To Commemorate The International Day Of The Girl Child, Stakeholders Noted that Protecting Girls From Abuse Must Go Hand In Hand With Providing The Knowledge, Skills And Opportunities Needed To Help Them Reach Their Full Potential.
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For Many Girls, The Transition From Secondary School Into Adulthood Comes With New Freedom But Also New Vulnerabilities.
With Less Supervision From Teachers And Parents, Stakeholders Say Girls May Become More Exposed To Peer Pressure, Gender-Based Violence, Sexual Exploitation And Other Forms Of Abuse.
It Is A Vulnerability This Conference Is Seeking To Address By Preparing Girls Not Only To Recognise Danger, But Also To Know How And Where To Seek Help.
For Stakeholders, Prevention Begins With Awareness.
Girls Are Being Encouraged To Understand Their Rights, Set Personal Boundaries, Make Independent Choice, and Speak Up When They Experience Abuse or Harassment.
The Message Also Extends To The Digital Space, Where Social Media Has Created New Opportunities For Learning And Connection — But Also New Forms Of Harassment And Exploitation.
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(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
