The Abon Abang Empowerment Foundation (AAEF), in collaboration with Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiative (HUWIB), has successfully concluded a two-day inter-school debate competition for public secondary schools in Obubra and Etung Local Government Areas, earning widespread commendation from students, teachers, and education stakeholders across Cross River.
The inter-school debate, which commenced at Government Technical College, Obubra, on Wednesday and concluded on Thursday at Community Secondary School, Etomi, in Etung Local Government Area, focused on the topic: “Should schools be held accountable for not preventing school-related gender-based violence?” The theme underscored the organisers’ commitment to raising awareness and stimulating informed discourse on School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) among young people.
In his welcome address, the Executive Director of AAEF, Engr. Dr. George Ndifon Abang, emphasised the importance of engaging students in conversations that promote safety, accountability, and respect within the school environment. He noted that empowering young people with knowledge and critical thinking skills is key to preventing gender-based violence and fostering inclusive learning spaces.
Engr. Abang commended the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, and representatives of her foundation, HUWIB, for partnering with his organisation to execute the initiative. He also praised her numerous humanitarian interventions, particularly those focused on the girl child, vulnerable persons, elderly women, and the less privileged. He reiterated AAEF’s unwavering commitment to partnering with NGOs and public-spirited individuals to intensify awareness and combat gender-based violence in schools and communities.
Speaking earlier, the Wife of the Governor, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, represented by the Special Adviser on Gender Mainstreaming and Chairman, Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiative, Dr. Inyang Asibong, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting children and promoting gender equity in schools. She stressed that educational institutions must take proactive responsibility in safeguarding students and addressing all forms of violence, particularly those rooted in gender inequality.
In separate reactions, the Principal of Community Secondary School, Elder Tawo Etta, alongside teachers Engr. John Donatus of Government Technical College, Obubra, and Mrs. Sally Timothy of Community Secondary School, Apiapum, commended the initiative. They described the debate as a valuable complement to classroom learning, noting that it encouraged critical thinking, respectful engagement with differing opinions, and the development of strong communication skills among students.
Participating students also praised the organisers for the initiative, describing the programme as enlightening and empowering. They appreciated the opportunity to express their views, challenge assumptions, and deepen their understanding of gender-related issues, adding that the debate boosted their confidence and broadened their perspectives on responsibility and accountability within the education system.
At the conclusion of the competition, outstanding schools and participants were rewarded with cash prizes, medals, and educational materials, while all participating schools received learning support items and cash.
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