Empowering Future Leaders: Inter-School Competition Marks World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
On Friday, July 19, the Giving Is Healing Foundation hosted an inter-school competition to mark this year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. This event, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and funded by the French Embassy in Nigeria, aimed to educate students on recognizing the warning signs and dangers of human trafficking.
The competition, themed “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking,” was designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to potential trafficking situations. Held at the Federal School and Technical College Yaba Lagos, the event featured a range of activities, including debates, quizzes, drama presentations, and interactive workshops. These activities highlighted the essential role of education in helping individuals form strong values and gain the confidence to reject illegal practices.
Ketty Regis from the French Embassy in Nigeria praised the event as a crucial initiative to engage schools in combating human trafficking and irregular migration. Regis emphasized the importance of involving young people in these discussions, as they are both highly vulnerable and pivotal in driving community change. The competition saw participation from several schools, including Ireti Senior Secondary School, Kuramo Secondary School, Command Day Secondary School Oshodi, Kings College, Queen’s College, Command Day Secondary School Ikeja, Aunty Ayo Secondary School, Federal Science and Technical College, and Victoria Island Senior Secondary School.
Cyprine Cheptepkeny from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) noted that the campaign focused on school children due to their susceptibility to trafficking. Cheptepkeny stressed that educating young people about the risks and signs of trafficking is critical in prevention efforts. She explained that the competition was thoughtfully organized to align with the theme of this year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.”
The event provided a valuable platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and commitment to combating human trafficking. Participants engaged in activities that deepened their knowledge of the issue and developed strategies for protecting themselves and their peers. The competition also fostered a sense of unity and collective responsibility, with many students feeling inspired to advocate for change in their own communities.
The Giving Is Healing Foundation, IOM, and the French Embassy in Nigeria all reiterated their dedication to continuing these efforts and expanding their reach to more schools and communities. They emphasized the ongoing need for education and community engagement in addressing human trafficking, with a particular focus on safeguarding children.
Finally, Gbolahan Ayediran, the Project Manager of the Giving Is Healing Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the French Embassy in Nigeria for their generous support. Ayediran acknowledged that this partnership is vital for advancing community development and creating a hopeful future. He also expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations, highlighting that such partnerships are essential for maintaining momentum in the fight against human trafficking and achieving meaningful change in the community.