Discussion on School-Related Gender Based Violence

Featured Speaker: Mary Ellen Duke, Center for Development and Population Activities

School-related gender based violence (SRGBV) is a new theme in the field of development, yet one that deserves increased attention in policy circles. Studies have shown that SRGBV severely disrupts the healthy social and educational development of children, which can hamper their future societal participation. This presentation focused specifically on gender dynamics, the interactions between men and women of all ages, defined in large part by socio-cultural ideas and power relationships.

The Centre for Development and Population Activities (CEDPA), a non-profit organization working to improve the lives of women and girls in developing countries, conducted twin education programs in Egypt for both boys and girls, aimed at decreasing SRGBV both at school and at home. New Visions, the boy’s program, demonstrated high success rates in halting domestic violence and exploitation. Problems arose, however, when aspects of the program directly conflicted with religious or cultural teachings, in particular with the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Due to these obstacles, it is important to implement programs through grassroots partners who understand local traditions and sensitivities.

For more information visit http://www.cedpa.org.

Sponsor: EQUATE-MSI
Location: Solar Room, Management Systems International, 600 Water St. SW
Date: July 16
Time: 12:00-2:00pm
Approximate Number of Attendees: 15
Intern Attending: Alexandra Martins