FG Launches Legal Manual to Address Gender Molestation in Schools
Recent findings indicate that many schools, both public and private, are not adequately safeguarded against school-related sexual and gender-based violence (SRGBV), leading to adverse effects such as school absenteeism, poor academic performance, and a decline in school attendance.
AKACHI NOEL 
The Federal Government's initiative to combat gender molestation in the school system has taken a significant step forward with the production of a manual aimed at tackling the menace using legal means.
Titled the 'Standard Operating Procedure for the Prosecution of Perpetrators of School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) Cases in Nigeria', the manual was unveiled in Abuja on February 7, signaling a concerted effort to address gender-based violence within educational institutions.
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Several key ministries and agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Justice, Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Nigeria Police Force, are involved in this collaborative initiative.
The overarching goal of the program, according to the federal government, is to ensure that every child's fundamental right to access quality education and a safe school environment is upheld. This initiative aligns with Goal 4 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the importance of education and its role in socioeconomic development and security.
Recent findings indicate that many schools, both public and private, are not adequately safeguarded against school-related sexual and gender-based violence (SRGBV), leading to adverse effects such as school absenteeism, poor academic performance, and a decline in school attendance.
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During the presentation of the manual, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting children and ensuring a safe learning environment. He emphasized that every child has the right to receive an education free from fear, intimidation, and violence, and stressed the importance of holding perpetrators of SRGBV accountable for their actions.
The manual addresses various forms of SRGBV, including physical and sexual violence, verbal abuse, discrimination, sexual harassment, and bullying, among others. It provides a multi-sectoral response framework to ensure the protection of both boys and girls at risk of SRGBV.
Key objectives of the manual include facilitating child-sensitive SRGBV investigations, prosecutions, and court procedures; integrating SRGBV into national policies and education sector plans; and raising awareness among stakeholders about SRGBV and referral pathways.
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Civil society organizations have expressed optimism about the manual's potential to curb SRGBV in schools, emphasizing the importance of adequate awareness and implementation to ensure its effectiveness.
Overall, the launch of this legal manual represents a significant step towards addressing gender-based violence in educational institutions and safeguarding the rights and well-being of children across Nigeria.
