Action Aid International the Gambia Local Rights Program office in Juffureh Upper Nuimi trained education stakeholders on child rights, promotion and protection in schools.
It is part of the agency commitment of advancing Human Rights Based Approach HRBA to Development.
Bakary Fadera, local rights program manger at Juffureh described the training as significant in engaging communities and schools in creating awareness on the legal instrument aim at protecting the rights of a child.
“The activity is part of Program Ambition 1 dubbed Empowerment of Women and Youths to recognize and rights violation. Support child advocate to popularize the need of protecting children,” he said.
Foday Kanyi, program officer said children act of 2015 makes child marriage illegal with penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment for both the parents and husband of the child.
“Child marriage is a violation of the rights of girls and an obstacle to attaining UN Sustainable Development Goals which calls for elimination of harmful traditional practices including FGM, early and forced marriage.”
He said school authorities should promote transparency of School Improvement Grant by displaying budget line for each activities using transparency board to bring about accountability and transparency.
This will contribute immensely to boost quality teaching and learning through providing materials and teaching aid for teachers, he said.
Matarr Ndow cluster monitor in the area commended Action Aid International for complementing the efforts of Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in promoting right issues at all levels in society.
He described the two days training for mother clubs, teachers, student and School Management Committees is important, noting that it has equip them with knowledge and skills on protection of child right from all form of abuse.
Author:Haruna Kuyateh