Uniting for a Cause: CHI, YALI Network Benue, Human Rights Commission and Partner CSOs Tackle Bullying in Schools
Bullying is a silent barrier that stands between students and their potential, eroding confidence and disrupting education. Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, the Cheerful Hands Initiative (CHI) joined forces with the YALI Network Benue and other civil society organizations (CSOs) to launch a groundbreaking Anti-Bullying Campaign across ten (10) schools in Makurdi, Benue State. This collaborative effort underscores the power of partnerships in creating safer learning environments for children. The Campaign Vision The Anti-Bullying School Campaign is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a safe, inclusive, and nurturing school environment. The campaign seeks to: • Raise awareness about bullying and its effects on students' mental health and academic performance. • Empower students, teachers, and parents with tools and knowledge to prevent and address bullying. • Foster a culture of respect, inclusion, and zero tolerance for harassment in schools. A Collective Effort for Change 1. Cheerful Hands Initiative (CHI): As a lead advocate for the rights and dignity of children, CHI brought its expertise in community engagement and education to the campaign. CHI’s team led workshops that educated students about their rights, the importance of self-respect, and how to stand against bullying. 2. YALI Network Benue: The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Network Benue played a pivotal role by mobilizing youth leaders to act as mentors and facilitators in schools. Their innovative approaches, including peer-to-peer mentoring, helped students connect with the message on a deeper level. 3. Partner CSOs: Other CSOs in Benue State, including organizations focused on child welfare, mental health, and gender inclusivity, enriched the campaign with diverse perspectives and resources. These partnerships ensured that the campaign reached a broader audience and addressed bullying from multiple angles. Activities and Impact 1. Interactive Workshops: The campaign kicked off with workshops in four schools across Makurdi. These sessions, designed for students, teachers, and parents, explored the causes and consequences of bullying while emphasizing the importance of kindness and inclusion. 2. Formation of Anti-Bullying Clubs: Students were encouraged to form clubs to sustain the campaign’s message. These clubs act as safe spaces where students can report incidents and collectively find solutions. 3. Training for Educators: Teachers were equipped with skills to identify and address bullying in classrooms effectively. The training emphasized proactive measures and constructive ways to discipline without resorting to punitive actions. 4. Community Outreach: Partner organizations used radio programs, social media, and local events to spread awareness about the campaign, ensuring that the anti-bullying message reached parents and community leaders. Real Stories of Change The campaign’s impact is already visible. In one school, a 14-year-old girl who had stopped attending classes due to relentless teasing about her appearance returned to school after participating in the workshops. She is now a member of her school’s Anti-Bullying Club, advocating for others like her. Similarly, teachers report improved student relationships, with many acknowledging that the campaign has helped them see the value of addressing bullying as a critical part of their role. A Message of Hope The Anti-Bullying School Campaign has not only raised awareness but has also sparked a movement. By uniting organizations, educators, students, and parents, the initiative is creating a culture of empathy and respect in schools across Makurdi. One student leader aptly summed it up: “We now understand that bullying isn’t just words or actions—it’s harm. And together, we can stop it.” What’s Next? Building on the success of the pilot phase, CHI, YALI Network Benue, and partner CSOs plan to expand the campaign to rural schools in Benue State, ensuring no child is left behind. Future activities will include the use of technology for anonymous reporting and creating more platforms for student advocacy. Join the Movement Bullying is a societal challenge that requires collective action. CHI, YALI Network Benue, and their partners invite more stakeholders—schools, parents, government agencies, and other organizations—to join this important mission. Together, we can create a future where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive. For more information or to support the campaign, please contact CHI at [+234 (0) 7019696134]. “Let’s stand together against bullying—because every child deserves a voice, and every voice deserves to be heard.”