By JACKSON AMEH | Project Leader
In Makurdi, Benue State’s capital, schools have become battlegrounds instead of sanctuaries. Recent reports reveal that 80% of students endure bullying, violence, or gender-based abuse—a crisis rooted in systemic gaps and a culture of silence. Many suffer quietly, developing anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to UNICEF, one in four Nigerian children experiences violence before age 18, and school is often where this trauma begins.
Our project offers a lifeline to students trapped in these cycles. By training 100 teachers and counselors, we’ll build safeguarding skills that can identify, prevent, and respond effectively to incidents of bullying and abuse. We’ll empower 3,500 students with life skills in conflict resolution and emotional resilience, equipping them to support themselves and their peers. Peer-led clubs will nurture leadership and open dialogue, making it easier for students to report issues and seek help.
Your support will transform schools from spaces of fear into places of hope, learning, and healing. Every donation funds workshops, counseling sessions, and the creation of peer-support networks that tackle stigma and promote mental health. As students learn to express themselves and support one another, we’ll see improved academic performance, social responsibility, and emotional strength.
By giving, you are helping to break the silence, protect the vulnerable, and build safe, inclusive schools in Makurdi. Together, we can create a future where every child learns without fear—and every voice is heard.
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