By Abdullahi Idris, Bauchi In a bold move to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) and empower young women, a Bauchi-based non-gove...
By Abdullahi Idris, Bauchi
In a bold move to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) and empower young women, a Bauchi-based non-governmental organization, Girl Child Values Support Initiative, in collaboration with the French Embassy Fund (FEF), has launched the STEAMinist Against GBV project—targeted at transforming the lives of 200 girls in Bauchi State.
The project, unveiled during a stakeholders’ advocacy meeting in Bauchi, is designed to equip girls aged 18 to 25, including those living with disabilities, with skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). The aim is to enable them to develop innovative solutions to address GBV and other pressing social issues in their communities.
Mr. Owa Zurel, Senior Programmes Officer of the initiative, explained that the project will begin in Bauchi metropolis, with virtual outreach extended to Tafawa Balewa and Bogoro Local Government Areas.
“The STEAMinist project is a unique platform to empower girls in crisis-affected communities, bridging the STEM gap while promoting gender equality through creativity, advocacy, and technological innovation,” he stated.
According to Zurel, the project will also involve direct collaboration with industry experts to design a mobile and online platform. The platform will include storytelling features, rapid response mechanisms, and an online support community dedicated to defending the rights of women and girls, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
The initiative further incorporates education, health, arts, advocacy, disability inclusion, climate justice, and sexual and reproductive health rights, forming a holistic model of empowerment for vulnerable young women.
“The STEAMinist project aims not only to combat GBV but to break the cycle of poverty and exclusion through education and empowerment,” Zurel emphasized.
Representing the Executive Director, Mrs. Precious Samson, Ms. Eswayi Polycarp called for multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure the project’s success and long-term sustainability.
“Our goal is clear: prevent gender-based violence, create STEAM opportunities, and drive inclusive development for girls and young women across Bauchi State,” she said.
Adding her voice, Hajiya Habiba Saad, Bauchi State Amira of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), applauded the initiative, describing it as both timely and vital.
“Parents are yearning for both skills and protection for their daughters in light of the rising GBV cases. The government must look into scaling this initiative across other LGAs,” she urged.
The project is expected to serve as a model of community-based innovation, using education and technology to not only safeguard girls but also redefine their role as changemakers in Bauchi and beyond.
No comments