In a concerted effort to combat the scourge of Gender Based Violence (GBV), the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, has organized a youth week and symposium aimed at raising awareness and empowering young journalists to address this pressing issue.
The symposium, themed “Unveiling the spectrum on gender based violence and empowering the youths for collective action,” took place at the Godwin Ezemo International Press Centre in Awka. Attended by stakeholders, lawmakers, government officials, and mass communication students from various universities including Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, and Paul University, Awka, the event provided a platform for insightful discussions and strategic planning.
Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Chairman of NUJ, Anambra State Council, emphasized the crucial role of the media in educating journalists-in-training to become advocates against GBV. He stressed the need for media practitioners to effectively report on issues related to GBV, thereby contributing to societal awareness and change.
A keynote lecture delivered by Miss Hope Okoye, Executive Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Women and Social Welfare, shed light on the various forms of GBV, including sexual assault and disenfranchisement of women. Okoye commended the efforts of the Anambra State government in protecting victims of sexual assault and urged survivors to report such crimes promptly and seek medical assistance.
Dr. Ikechukwu Umeh, Head of Department, Information and Communication Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, discussed the role of ICT in combating GBV, offering innovative solutions for apprehending offenders and providing support to victims.
Honorable Emeka Aforka, former member of Anambra State House of Assembly, Honorable Ebuka Igwe, member representing Idemili South Constituency at the State House of Assembly, and Mr. Ejimofor Okpara, National Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), lauded the state’s efforts in curbing GBV, including the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Law and the establishment of specialized courts.
Participants, such as Mr. Chizaram Ekwurumadu of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, and Miss Gloria Okoro of Paul University, Awka, expressed gratitude for the impactful program, stating that they feel empowered as budding journalists to make a positive difference in addressing GBV in society.
