After learning about the effects of child marriage and child labour through some of our Global Citizen Days, we realised how big of an issue child abuse is in Nigeria and wanted to do everything we could to help in the fight against it. So we decided, as it was Universal Children's Day on 20th November, it was the perfect time for us to plan not just one, but two CADs on the issue of Child Rights.
The first of the two was held at the local government school, Ta'al Model School in Lafia. We divided ourselves into three groups - primary, secondary and teachers - and each prepared a presentation for our respective audiences. We also wrote short drama performances which some of the students prepared and performed to the other pupils during our talks. Some of the issues we covered included sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, child marriage, and child labour.
I myself was in the primary school group. In all honesty, I put myself forward to be in that group because I initially thought it would be the easiest - when it comes to young children, all you have to do is make it fun and you're sorted... right? Wrong. It actually turned out to be more challenging than we thought. How can we make such a serious issue fun, whilst also making sure the kids aren't bored senseless? How on earth do we go about talking about sexual abuse to such young children?! Luckily with the help of members of the Child Protection Network Nigeria (CPN), we were able to work around these problems and plan a suitable talk.
Unfortunately we forgot one golden rule - nothing ever goes to plan when children are involved!
To make it "fun" and to grab their attention, we wanted to start off with a song. Who knew 'Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes' could turn into such mayhem?! After a crazy 15 minutes trying to settle the children back down and focus, we eventually started our talk. Despite the rocky start, a few issues with language barriers and some little giggles at words like 'bum bum' and 'breasts' from the children (and possibly some volunteers...), we all came out feeling like it was a huge success!
After finishing the primary school presentation, the other volunteers spoke to the teachers and the secondary school pupils.
By the end of the afternoon, we all felt well and truly chuffed with the success of the day. The feedback from the children and teachers was all super positive, and even if we can save just one child from abuse, our efforts will have been well worth it.
Next up... the child rights rally CAD!
Natasha Wright
UK Volunteer
By the end of the afternoon, we all felt well and truly chuffed with the success of the day. The feedback from the children and teachers was all super positive, and even if we can save just one child from abuse, our efforts will have been well worth it.
Next up... the child rights rally CAD!
Natasha Wright
UK Volunteer
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