The Senegalese Ministry of Education has initiated a national campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence, exploitation, and harassment in schools. The campaign, which runs from November 2 to 30, 2026, aims to create a safe and protective environment for children to learn and grow. The ministry's Gender and Equity cell is spearheading the effort, which was launched in Diourbel region.
The campaign's launch was marked by a sensitization caravan that traversed several streets in Diourbel, stopping at schools, educational institutions, and daaras. Authorities engaged with students, educating them on risk behaviors and ways to prevent and report violence. The caravan concluded at the Diourbel Academic Inspection office. According to Anna Sow, coordinator of the Gender and Equity cell, the ministry seeks to make schools safe and protective environments.
Aboubacry Sadikh Niang, head of the Diourbel educational district, urged students to report abuse and signal any form of violence they may witness or experience. This call highlights the crucial role students play in building a school environment that respects everyone's rights and dignity. The campaign aims to empower students to take an active role in preventing and reporting violence.
The sensitization caravan will continue its campaign in all Senegalese regions until November 30, 2026. Beyond these mobilizations, the ministry's goal is to establish a culture of prevention, vigilance, and collective responsibility, ensuring schools remain places of learning, protection, and growth for all children. The ministry seeks to engage students, teachers, and communities in this effort.
The campaign focuses on combating gender-based violence, exploitation, and harassment, as well as digital violence, particularly in schools. By engaging students and communities, the ministry aims to prevent and respond to these issues effectively. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote a culture of respect and dignity in Senegalese schools.
Key stakeholders, including students, teachers, and community members, are being engaged through this campaign. By working together, they can help create a safe and supportive learning environment. The ministry's efforts are geared towards promoting a culture of zero tolerance for violence and harassment in schools.
The national campaign against gender-based violence in Senegal is a significant step towards promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and safety in schools. By engaging students, teachers, and communities, the ministry aims to create a safe and protective environment for all children to learn and grow.
Key points
- The campaign aims to make schools safe and protective environments for children.
- The ministry's effort seeks to establish a culture of prevention, vigilance, and collective responsibility.
- The campaign will run until November 30, 2026, covering all Senegalese regions.
