Kano, Nigeria – [05-07-2025] — In a powerful move to empower survivors and tackle sexual harassment in tertiary educational institutions, Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF) in collaboration with the Center for Advocacy on Justice and Accountability (CAJA) has organized a capacity-building training programme titled "Advocacy and Public Awareness Training for Survivors of Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Educational Institutions in Kano State."
The event brought together survivors, student leaders, and advocates in a safe and enabling space to learn, share experiences, and build collective strength to combat gender-based harassment in academic environments.
The training featured key presentations from seasoned facilitators, starting with Comrade Kabiru Saidu Dakata, Director of the Center for Advocacy on Justice and Accountability (CAJA), who delivered the welcome remarks. In his address, Comrade Dakata emphasized the importance of survivor-centered advocacy and the need for collaborative action to challenge institutional silence around sexual misconduct.
He also facilitated a session on "Elevator Pitch in Advocacy," where participants were taught how to confidently and concisely present advocacy messages to key decision-makers within a limited timeframe. His presentation focused on crafting compelling messages, identifying target audiences, and leveraging short conversations to influence change.
Barrister Maryam Ahmad, a legal expert and gender rights advocate, delivered a comprehensive presentation on “Understanding the Concept of Advocacy.” She explored the legal and institutional frameworks for advocacy, especially in the context of sexual harassment, and provided participants with tools to navigate legal systems and influence policy reform.
In another insightful session, Comrade Adam Dakata engaged participants on "The Need to Understand the Concept of Public Awareness." He explained the role of public education in shifting social attitudes, mobilizing communities, and sustaining advocacy efforts. According to him, raising awareness is crucial in breaking the culture of silence and promoting institutional accountability.
The training ended with an interactive session where participants developed mini-action plans for advocacy campaigns within their respective campuses and communities.
This initiative marks a critical step in creating a safe academic environment for all, particularly women and girls, and reflects the growing commitment of civil society organizations to address gender-based violence through knowledge, empowerment, and collective action.