Silver Lining for the Needy Initiative (SLNI) on the 19th, 20th, 22nd, & 23rd of August 2019 carried out Adolescent Club Meeting at Piwoyi, Kpaduma, Durumi&Karu Communities respectively. The meeting which commenced at 12:00 pm at each location started with opening prayers and brief introductions of all present. The Adolescent Officer in the person of Ms. Faith Idoko anchored all sessions. Issues discussed at the meeting include:
- Sexual Harassment/Abuse
Ms. Faith welcomed the adolescents explaining the dimensions of sexual harassment ranging from unwelcomed sexual advances, unwanted and inappropriate sexual remarks or physical advances, requests for sexual favors through sexual overtures, verbal or written communication, to advances made as condition for employment, education, living environment or participation in social, religious or school activities. These could be classified further into mild transgressions or sexual abuse or assault.
Sexual abuse presentable forms include undesirable forceful sexual acts, molestation or exploitation committed in exchange for money, drugs, food, shelter, and provisions or sexual cajoling through threats. She admonished that victims of such abuse should never keep mute, but report such cases immediately to appropriate quarters.
Ms. Faith explained the adverse psychological and traumatic effects of sexual abuse relating that such could be carried out by relatives and strangers alike. She stressed on the need to be fully dressed, as well holding one’s body in great dignity and honor.
Finally, she advised the adolescents to be selective of the of TV contents, internet, video games and the likes that they explore or expose themselves to as such platforms could mislead and promote sexual abuse. There was equally need for awareness creation among peers and school groups.
Key recommendations for the adolescents was to lead a well- behaved social life, keep healthy relationships and friendships, and learn lucrative skills to occupy their leisure time. The program was educative, informative, and interactive.
Refreshment was served at the end of the program. The meeting came to a close at about 2:00pm. A total number of two hundred and seventy six (276) adolescents were in attendance from all the communities.
SLNI aims and objectives for the programs are to empower and improve the lives of adolescents in rural communities by equipping them with the right knowledge in order to safeguard their lives and future.
