By: Fatou Krubally
The Joint EU-German Support to the Gambia Police Force recently concluded a five-day training on Sexual and Reproductive Health rights using game-based learning methods. The training, which took place from the 27th to the 31st of January, aimed to empower law enforcers on addressing issues of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in the Gambia.
Dr. Marion Popp, head of the Joint EU-German Support to the Gambia Police Force, expressed gratitude to the dedicated trainers, facilitators, and organizers for their efforts in making the training a success. She urged the participants to be ambassadors of sexual and reproductive health rights in their communities, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in creating positive change. Dr. Popp stated, “Knowledge is power and it is the foundation for change.”
Commissioner Mustapha Ndong, representing the IGP, highlighted the importance of the training in the context of the National Security Sector Reform in the Gambia. He emphasized the need for a strategy to roll out the knowledge gained from the training, particularly to recruits at the police training school. Commissioner Ndong commended the trainers for their engaging and informative approach to addressing issues of SGBV, stating, “We cannot thank the trainers enough for sharing the knowledge and experience when it comes to the management of SGBV.”
Amie Nyassi, Commissioner of the Banjul region and chairperson of the Female Network, thanked Girl’s Pride and GIZ for their support in organizing the training. She called for funding opportunities to sustain and maximize the impact of the knowledge transfer to ensure the continued empowerment of law enforcers in the Gambia, saying, “We will continue to be partners together with other stakeholders who are supporting the Female Network.”
Fatou Bojang, Gender Officer, gave a demonstration of the game-b toased learning approach used in the training. She explained how the game, named FUNE, was designed to reinforce knowledge on sexual and reproductive health rights through interactive gameplay. A volunteer of Girls Pride and trainer of the project, Abdourahman Bah, elaborated on the purpose of the game, emphasizing the need for innovative and engaging training methods to keep law enforcers informed and motivated. Bah stated, “Make things fun and then gather knowledge too.”
The training on Sexual and Reproductive Health rights using game-based learning methods provided law enforcers in the Gambia with practical skills and knowledge to address issues of SGBV. The commitment and dedication of the participants, trainers, and organizers were commended, highlighting the importance of continuous education and action to combat gender-based violence in communities. As law enforcers return to their duties, they are equipped with the tools to create a safer and more equitable society for all.