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GBV: WOVAIDE Sensitizes 605 Students in Takum, Intensifies Fight Against Gender-Based Violence in Taraba.



By Jako Keke, February 24, 2026.

 In a renewed push to curb the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Taraba State, Women of Valour Initiative for Development and Empowerment (WOVAIDE) has conducted a three-day sensitization campaign across 21 secondary schools in Takum Local Government Area.

The awareness programme, held on February 17th–18th and 20th, 2026, targeted 16 private and five government secondary schools, reaching a total of 605 students and 34 teachers and principals.

The initiative forms part of WOVAIDE’s broader strategy to address the root causes of gender-based violence through early education, advocacy, and community engagement. Participants were educated on the various forms of GBV, including physical and emotional violence, sexual violence, child marriage, human trafficking, pedophilia, female genital mutilation (FGM), domestic violence, and rape.

Speaking during the exercise, the Chief Executive Officer, CEO of WOVAIDE Mrs Sarah David Ibi emphasized that sensitizing young people remains a critical step in preventing abuse, protecting vulnerable groups, and building a culture of respect and equality.

To ensure sustained impact, the schools were grouped into five clusters in preparation for upcoming annual special events and quiz competitions designed to reinforce learning and deepen students’ understanding of gender rights and protection mechanisms.

Mrs Sarah Ibi revealed that Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were distributed to all participants to strengthen the key messages delivered during the sessions.

 The CEO encouraged the students to share the knowledge gained with at least nine peers each  a multiplier strategy aimed at expanding outreach and promoting social behavioural change within and beyond the school environment.

Observers note that Takum, like many communities across Taraba State, continues to grapple with challenges such as child marriage, domestic violence, and harmful traditional practices.

 Civil society organizations have consistently called for stronger collaboration between schools, parents, religious leaders, and government institutions to address these issues.

WOVAIDE’s intervention aligns with ongoing efforts by stakeholders in Taraba State to create safer spaces for women and children, enhance reporting mechanisms, and promote gender justice. By focusing on secondary school students, the organization seeks to nurture a generation that is informed, vigilant, and empowered to speak out against abuse.
The sensitization team was led by the Board of Trustees Chairperson, Esther Y. Sule, alongside the Chief Executive Officer, Sarah David Ibi, and Programme Officer, Kefas Phatima Hassan.

Education stakeholders in Takum from the Schools  visited commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, particularly at a time when awareness and prevention remain vital tools in combating gender-based violence.

With over 600 young people directly reached and hundreds more expected to benefit through peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, WOVAIDE says it remains committed to expanding its advocacy footprint across other local government areas of Taraba State in pursuit of a violence-free society.

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