The Kisii County nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) Lilian Gor has praised University and college students for being in the forefront in fights against the Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the region.
“We appreciate our youth from institutions of higher learning for the good work they are doing in sensitising our community on the benefits of peaceful coexistence.” She said, adding that Gender Based Violence is a silent crisis that has been unfolding, threatening the very fabric of the community.
Speaking in Kisii town, Gor said that the crisis has caused numerous problems ranging from unstable families, lack of peace, food shortage and financial constraints that hinder education and development of children.
She added that the partnership between youth and Kisii County Government has emerged a beacon of hope, taking a bold stance against gender violence and championing the cause of education development.
“The impact of gender violence on families cannot be overstated. When families are plagued by violence, the effects trickle down to the children leading to poor academic performance, increased dropout and the perpetuation of the cycle of poverty.” She said
She lauded Kisii University and Kisii National Polytechnic staff and students for championing the course and asked other institutions to emulate them.
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Kisii University Vice Chancellor Prof Nathan Ogechi said that the University is aiding the fight against dender violence through advocacy and awareness campaigns.
“We have established gender centres that provide a safe place for breastfeeding and survivors’ haven to seek help and support.” He said
He said that the centres organize regular awareness campaigns, workshops and seminars that educate students, staff and the broader community about the dangers of gender violence and the importance of promoting gender equality.
Ogechi added that the University is also integrating gender studies into the curriculum to ensure that students are equipped with knowledge and skills necessary to challenge patriarchal norms and promote gender sensitivity practices in their future work places and communities.
The approach, he said, not only empowers students but also contributes to cultural shift towards gender equality and respect for human rights.
The don said that in addition to advocacy and education, Kisii University is also providing support services to survivors of GBV that include guidance and counselling, legal aid and medical assistance.
“By providing a safe and supportive environment, our institution is empowering survivors to break the silence add seek justice thereby contributing to a broader culture of accountability.” He said
He called upon other learning institutions to extend their roles beyond their campuses’ boundaries if the gender violence practices have to come to an end.
He said that through outreach programmes, they will spread awareness about the importance of education and the need to promote girls and women safety
By Enock Okong’o
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