As part of its ongoing commitment to the protection of children's rights, the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR), Offa Unit, took their advocacy to secondary schools in Offa Local Government on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.
The team, led by Senior Comrade Apostle Gabriel Kolawole, the Unit Chairman, visited Offa Grammar School to raise awareness about the importance of recognizing and upholding children's rights in educational environments.
Comrade Kolawole emphasized the necessity of educating students on their rights, noting that many children are unaware of their legal entitlements, particularly in situations where authority figures, such as teachers, may unintentionally or intentionally infringe on those rights.
He stressed that this lack of awareness often leaves students vulnerable to exploitation and mistreatment.
By empowering students with the knowledge of their rights, CDHR aims to equip them with the tools to advocate for themselves both in school and the wider community, creating a foundation for respect, justice, and accountability.
Kolawole highlighted that advocacy is not just about awareness but about fostering the confidence needed for students to assert their rights and respond effectively to injustices.
“Understanding their rights will not only benefit them within the school setting but also guide their behavior and decisions in their communities and homes,” he said.
The CDHR Offa Unit Secretary, Comrade Abdulfatai Tomori, also spoke to the students, urging them, especially the female students, to stand up against discrimination and ensure that their rights are protected.
He encouraged students to report any violations they may experience.
Comrade Ibrahim Jimoh further reinforced the message by quoting relevant sections of the law that protect children's rights, ensuring the students understood the legal framework supporting their entitlements.
The Principal of Offa Grammar School, Mr. FT Salami, expressed his appreciation to the CDHR for their timely and insightful intervention.
He acknowledged that the session would have a lasting impact on both the teachers and students and promised to facilitate further opportunities for comprehensive rights education.
This initiative is closely aligned with programs like the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), a World Bank-backed project in partnership with the Kwara State Ministry of Education.
The programs aim to empower students, particularly girls, by promoting awareness of child and gender rights, helping them overcome emotional challenges, and encouraging them to focus on their studies free from discrimination or violations of their fundamental rights
