Headmaster of Daffiama Senior High School, Mr. Osbert Salifu Dambiah (in Smock) with other Stakeholders

Organized by: Daffiama Senior High School
Theme: Safe Spaces, Empowered Voices, Ending Harassment in Our Schools

Gender-based violence (GBV) continues to be a global challenge, undermining the dignity and rights of individuals, especially within educational settings. In line with the global campaign to end gender-based violence, Daffiama Senior High School undertook a 16-day activism program from November 25 to December 10, 2024. The program, themed “Safe Spaces, Empowered Voices, Ending Harassment in Our Schools,” aimed at raising awareness, empowering stakeholders, and fostering an environment of safety and respect for all members of the school and community.

This report highlights the key activities, significant moments, and the impact of the program on the school community.
The Launch of the 16 Days of Activism Program
The program was officially launched on November 25, 2024, in a vibrant ceremony that brought together staff, students, and community members. The Headmaster delivered a stirring keynote address, emphasizing the school’s commitment to addressing sexual harassment and creating a culture of respect and inclusion.
The event featured artistic performances by students, including poetry recitations, dances, and songs, all centered on the theme of the campaign. These performances creatively highlighted the dangers of sexual harassment, its consequences, and the need for collective action.

The Assistant Headmaster for Domestic gave a comprehensive presentation on the theme, outlining practical strategies to combat harassment within the school setting. The launch also featured remarks by the Headmaster, who reiterated the importance of the program in addressing not only harassment but also broader issues of inequality and safety.

Activities During the Campaign
Over the course of 16 days, a variety of activities were conducted to engage different stakeholders within the school and community. These activities were designed to create awareness, empower individuals, and provide practical solutions to tackle harassment and gender-based violence.

1. Sensitization Sessions for Staff and Students
   Teachers, non-teaching staff, and students were sensitized on the meaning, causes, and consequences of sexual harassment. These sessions highlighted the importance of recognizing harassment in its various forms and understanding the devastating effects it can have on victims.
   The sensitization program also included strategies for responding to harassment and creating a supportive environment for victims. Student leaders were engaged in discussions on how to handle reported cases of harassment and provide peer support.
2. Talks for Students
   Separate talks were organized for male and female students, focusing on their unique experiences and challenges regarding harassment. These sessions provided a safe platform for students to share their thoughts and learn about their rights and responsibilities in combating gender-based violence.
   A general talk for the entire student body reinforced the importance of speaking out, respecting boundaries, and maintaining a safe and inclusive school environment.
3. Creative and Competitive Activities.
   To further engage the school community, several creative and competitive events were held. These included:
   Debates: Students debated critical topics such as the adequacy of current measures to combat harassment and the necessity of a zero-tolerance policy.

Performances: Dance and poetry presentations showcased the students’ creativity while addressing the campaign’s themes.

Drama Shows: Students performed dramas illustrating the causes, effects, and solutions to harassment.

These activities not only educated but also empowered students to become advocates for change.

4. Community Engagement

The program extended beyond the school through a float and community outreach efforts. Placards and banners were used during a public float to raise awareness about the campaign. Additionally, school representatives visited nearby basic schools and engaged religious groups to further spread the message.

Visit by Dignitaries

On one of the most notable days of the program, Daffiama Senior High School welcomed distinguished visitors who joined the campaign to show their support. Among them were:

Mr. Calistus Dassah, Upper West Regional Guidance and Counselling Coordinator.

Miss Janet Kpan, Upper West Regional Girl Child Coordinator.

Three representatives from T-TEL: Mad Latifa Zakari, Mad B. Kankwah, and Mad Lila Adom Yamuah.

These guests delivered brief but impactful inspirational speeches, commending the school for its efforts in addressing gender-based violence. Their words motivated the staff and students, reinforcing the importance of the campaign and its potential to create lasting change.

The Climax of the Program

The program culminated in a closing ceremony on December 10, 2024, marked by reflections, feedback, and a call to action. The Headmaster delivered a powerful speech, urging the school and community to sustain the momentum of the campaign.

He highlighted the successes of the program, including the heightened awareness, the empowerment of students to speak out, and the strengthened partnerships between the school and community stakeholders. The Headmaster called on everyone to continue advocating for safe spaces and equality, emphasizing that the fight against gender-based violence requires ongoing effort and collaboration.

The ceremony also included a feedback session where students shared how the campaign had influenced their perspectives and behaviors. This was followed by a final float through the community, symbolizing the school’s commitment to continuing the advocacy.

Impact of the Campaign

The 16 Days of Activism Program made a significant impact on the Daffiama SHS community and beyond:

1. Increased Awareness: Staff, students, and community members gained a deeper understanding of gender-based violence, its consequences, and ways to address it.
2. Empowerment: Students, especially girls, felt encouraged to speak out against harassment and take an active role in promoting equality.
3. Collaboration: The involvement of community leaders, parents, and external organizations strengthened the school’s capacity to address these issues effectively.
4. Behavioral Change: The campaign fostered a culture of respect, inclusion, and accountability within the school.

Acknowledgments

The success of this campaign would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders. Special thanks go to:
The Headmaster and staff of Daffiama SHS for their dedication.
The distinguished visitors who graced the program and provided inspiration.
The students, whose creativity and passion brought the campaign to life.
Community leaders and parents who supported the initiative.

Conclusion

The 16 Days of Activism Program at Daffiama SHS has set a precedent for future efforts to combat gender-based violence. As the Headmaster noted in his closing speech, this is not the end but the beginning of a sustained commitment to creating safe spaces, empowering voices, and ending harassment in schools and communities.

By Daffiama Senior High School