IN collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Centre for Response and Prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (CRPSGBV), Lagos State University has organised a two-week training to empower staff and address the pressing issue of Gender-Based Violence.
The two-week training programme, themed "Training of Trainers on Gender Based Violence in Emergencies (GBVIE)," commenced on Monday, April 15, 2024, at the Femi Gbajabiamila Conference Centre on LASU's main campus in Ojo, Lagos.
During the opening ceremony, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof Adenike Omotunde Boyo, delivered the opening speech, where she said: "We have the power to effect positive change, challenge harmful norms, and create a brighter and more equitable future for all.”
Prof. Olatunji-Bello, through Prof Boyo, expressed sincere gratitude to UNFPA for their unwavering commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing the root causes of Gender-Based Violence. She asserted that the partnership with UNFPA has been instrumental in the success of the training and LASU is honoured to collaborate with the renowned organisation.
The Acting-Director of CRPSGBV, Dr Igot Ofem, echoed the institution's passion for empowering its students, staff, and the community.
"LASU has zero tolerance for sexual and Gender-Based Violence and will not relent in curbing the perpetrators of these unlawful acts," she asserted.
The UNFPA Team Lead, Mr Christian Sabum Macauley, expressed hope that the training will produce strong trainers who will not only empower LASU but also replicate the programme in other higher academic institutions across the South West Zone of Nigeria.
At the end of the two-week training, LASU, in collaboration with LASU Consult and UNFPA, will be running the GBV Course, with the trained individuals serving as facilitators. This initiative aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to become agents of change in their communities, challenging harmful norms and creating a more equitable future for all.
The event will conclude on Friday, April 26, 2024, with a closing ceremony, where certificates will be issued to all participants.
