AWARENESS CAMPAIGN AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN EPR SCHOOLS

On 20 May 2026, a campaign was conducted in Es Kirinda, one of the schools owned by the Eglise Presbytérienne au Rwanda (EPR) to raise awareness on Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The event was organized by the EPR through its Centre for Training and Documentation (CFD) in collaboration with local authorities and security institutions.

The campaign was preceded by a public anti GBV walk which brought together students and teachers from EPR schools, namely ES Kirinda, IPK and GS Kirinda. The event was also attended by representatives of the EPR Presbytery of Kirinda, officers of the Rwanda National Police from Murambi Sector, the DASSO Coordinator and local government leaders from the area where the schools are located.

The event’s discussions were centered on promoting the principles of gender equality and complementarity, preventing and fighting against gender-based violence, child sexual abuse, human trafficking, and raising awareness on legal frameworks and support services available to survivors of violence.

The event also included advocacy messages against violence through traditional dances, songs, poems and drama performances presented by students associated within the Anti-SGBV Club (Sexual and Gender Based Violence Club). The students through their artistic activities called on the youth to actively get involved in the prevention of violence and to report abuse whenever it happens.

Modulator of Kirinda presbytery in her remarks highlighted the role of the church in combating violence and abuse within families and communities, safeguarding children and youth and enhancing collaboration with diverse stakeholders in building a safe and rights-based society.

The campaign had active participation, institutional partnerships and fruitful dialogue that allowed students and educators to increase their understanding of their role in preventing and responding to Gender-Based Violence.