WABMA Foundation, Partners Launch School-Based SGBV Sensitization Across Southeast

In a powerful grassroots push to prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and amplify awareness among youth, the WABMA Foundation in partnership with active Leaders of Faith and Culture (LFCs) conducted a series of school sensitization outreaches across three southeastern states: Anambra, Abia, and Enugu.

These events, held from July 8 to 10, 2025, targeted secondary school students and administrators with tailored messages on SGBV prevention, reporting mechanisms, and the dangers of drug abuse as a contributing factor.

The outreach featured respected religious and cultural figures including Pastor Echezona Izuchukwu Okafor of Spirit Life Christian Center, Awka; Igwe Joel Maduadichie Egwuonwu of Umuawulu, Awka South; Rev. Fr. Mbabie from Enugu State; and HRM Eze Chisbuotu Emelike, the Ezimba of Eziama/Mgbaja Autonomous Community, Ossah Ibeku Ancient Kingdom, Abia State.

These leaders served as advocates and educators, bridging cultural authority and moral clarity to address the multifaceted issues surrounding SGBV.

Sessions explored a variety of critical topics:

SGBV prevention strategies for students and adults

How to report SGBV incidents safely and effectively

Raising awareness on the prevalence of SGBV in schools and communities
The link between substance abuse and increased risk of sexual violence
A notable moment came during the outreach at Union Secondary School, Awkunanaw, Enugu State, when a student courageously asked, “What can one do when faced with threat to life, if he chooses to speak out after being sexually assaulted?” Rev.

Fr. Mbabie responded emphatically: “Your parents should be the first port of refuge. Confide in them. No one can kill you for speaking out when sexually harassed.” His reassurance empowered students to recognize their right to speak up and seek support without fear.

The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a renewed sense of confidence in protecting themselves and advocating for others. Several students shared reflections on how they intend to use the knowledge gained to create awareness among their peers and prevent future incidents of assault.

School principals and proprietors applauded the initiative, noting its timeliness and importance. Ven. Dr. Moses Peter Ifeanyieze, Principal of Union Secondary School, Awkunanaw, praised the efforts of Rev. Fr. Mbabie and other participating LFCs. “He is representing the Christian faith in combating SGBV with integrity and action,” Esomonu stated.

This school outreach marks a continued commitment by WABMA Foundation, supported by the Ford Foundation, to bring SGBV advocacy into everyday spaces—equipping young people with the tools to understand, resist, and report abuse.
School Outreach Schedule:
Anambra State:
Holy Cross High School, Umuawulu, Awka South – July 8, 2025
Union Secondary School, Umuawulu, Awka South – July 9, 2025
Abia State:
Eziama Mgbaja Senior Secondary School – July 9, 2025
Enugu State:
Union Secondary School, Awkunanaw – July 10, 2025

WABMA Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate Sexual and Gender-Based Violence by investing in community-based education and empowering the next generation to become change agents in their schools and communities.