Orientation Sessions on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Violence Against Children (VAC), Cyber Bullying, and Prevention of Sexual Harassment for Girl Guides, Scouts, and Rover Scouts in Bhola District

In the three upazilas of Bhola district  Bhola Sadar, Daulatkhan, and Charfassion orientation sessions were conducted with Girl Guides, Scouts, and Rover Scouts on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Violence Against Children (VAC), cyber bullying, and prevention of sexual harassment.

The main objective of the programme was to enhance awareness among adolescents on gender equality, strengthen their capacity to prevent violence, and develop safe online and social behaviour so that they can play an active role in their educational institutions and communities.

Under the Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) initiative, the orientation sessions provided detailed knowledge to participants on gender-based violence, child protection, cyber safety, and adolescent-friendly health services.

The sessions on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Violence Against Children (VAC) were conducted by Training and Monitoring Officer Marufa Sultana. She explained the difference between gender and sex and discussed various forms of violence, including physical, mental, emotional, and social abuse. She also highlighted the impact of violence on children and emphasized the importance of individual, family, and community awareness in prevention.

The session on cyber bullying was conducted by Project Coordinator Md. Sazib Rahman. He discussed the differences between online and offline bullying, causes of cyber bullying, associated risks, and its long-term consequences. He also emphasized the importance of safe internet use and responsible digital behaviour.

Interactive discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and real-life examples were used throughout the sessions to ensure active participation and better understanding among participants.

After the training sessions, project officers conducted a question-and-answer session with the participants to further clarify their understanding and strengthen learning outcomes.

Later, an action plan was developed outlining how participants would apply the knowledge gained from the training at their respective schools and community levels. Participants committed to raising awareness, sharing information among peers, and promoting positive behavioural change within their communities.

These orientation sessions played an important role in increasing awareness on gender issues, strengthening child protection, improving cyber safety knowledge, and promoting safe social behaviour among adolescents in the three upazilas of Bhola district.

Sustained implementation of such initiatives will further contribute to youth empowerment, awareness building, and positive social change in the community.