FICH empowers 120 girls with career insights and anti-harassment education

4 December 2024, 9:28 am

By Eman Yonah Oruk

Benson Semondo, the Grade Three Magistrate Court in Oyam district, made these remarks during a visit by Foundation for Inclusive Community Help (FICH) to the court, where they brought 120 girls from various schools such as Acaba SS, Atapara SS, and Everest High School.

He highlighted that young girls are being abused in many ways, with the most common form being sexual harassment. This includes actions such as touching someone’s back, making unwanted advances, or using sexually suggestive comments like “I love you,” which are also considered forms of harassment.

As part of its Delivery Boot Camp initiative, Victoria Harriet Anyango, the program officer for FICH, explained that the organisation takes the girls to visit places such as courts, prisons, and council halls to help develop their careers and prepare them for the future. She emphasised that the program is inclusive, considering both genders, with girls aged 15-20 in secondary schools and both boys and girls in primary schools.

The Ministry of Education’s curriculum, she added, emphasises the importance of connecting students with real-life situations to broaden their perspectives and prepare them for future roles in society.

At the Oyam District Headquarters, Mr. John Marks Agong, Senior District Planner, shared career insights with the students, stressing the importance of discipline, hard work, and divine intervention on their path to success.

The students left the visits with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the knowledge and opportunities presented to them.

Many students expressed their determination to apply what they’ve learned, with plans to shape their futures through education and hard work.

Joan Akite and Felly Akoli, students of Acaba SS, expressed their gratitude for their teachers and FICH for their cooperation.

This initiative marks another significant step in FICH’s ongoing mission to empower young girls and women in the district, providing them with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the real world.