The Raissa Child Protection Initiative (TRCPI) has launched a year-long anti-child sexual abuse campaign aimed at raising awareness about crimes against children and promoting measures to prevent such abuses.
The campaign was launched on Wednesday at the Dawu Presbyterian Junior High School in the Eastern Region through an interactive and educative engagement with pupils on sexual abuse, how to seek help, and practical ways to reduce the risk of becoming victims.
The initiative will run throughout the year, focusing on school visits and community outreach programmes, particularly in vulnerable communities.
In addition to child protection education, the campaign will also encourage children to uphold strong moral values and take their education seriously.
Addressing the pupils, the Founder of TRCPI, Ms Raissa Sambou, advised them to seek immediate help from parents, teachers, or other trusted adults if they find themselves in situations that could lead to abuse.
She urged the pupils to remain focused on their studies and to avoid bad company that could corrupt their morals and distract them from achieving their goals.
Ms Sambou encouraged the children to be confident, disciplined, and fearless, stressing that sexual abuse and sexual immorality posed serious threats to a bright future.
She clarified that sexual abuse does not affect only girls, explaining that boys could also be victims and should remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to parents or teachers.
A member of the TRCPI team, Ms Stephanie Birikorang, cautioned pupils against bullying or teasing colleagues who may have experienced abuse, noting that such actions discourage victims from speaking up.
She explained that bullying and teasing in all forms were harmful and called on pupils to show love, protection, and support for one another, especially during difficult times.
Also present was the Founder of AJ Helps the Needy, Mrs Anita Opoku-Appiah, who encouraged the pupils to stay committed to their education and avoid using challenges such as hunger or lack of sanitary pads as excuses to engage in sexual immorality.
She urged them to speak up when faced with difficulties and to seek help rather than putting themselves at risk.
The Head Teacher of Dawu Presbyterian JHS expressed appreciation to TRCPI for the initiative, describing such engagements as vital in shaping the attitudes and behaviour of pupils.
TRCPI reaffirmed its belief that sensitisation leads to prevention and pledged to continue working with schools, families, and communities to create safe environments where children can grow, thrive, and pursue their dreams without fear.
FROM TIMES REPORTER,
DAWU
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