Discrimination and Violence Against the Girl Child
Objectives Identify instances of discrimination and violence against the girl child Examine the role of education in addressing discrimination and violence against the girl child
Introduction There exist many laws internationally and nationally that should protect the Girl Child against discrimination and violence However, she is subjected to some of the worst forms of human rights abuses (UN EGM, 2006). Also some of their families and communities regard these as ‘normal practices’ which ordinarily happen.
When Does This Discrimination and Violence Occur? Girls encounter discrimination and violence right from birth. During adolescence, their susceptibility to sexual violence increases.
Where Does This Discrimination and Violence Occur? It occurs in settings where they expect maximum protection such as: oIn School oAt Home oAmong the Immediate Community
Forms of Discrimination and Violence Sexual Violence / Incest /Rape Harmful Traditional Practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Early / Forced Marriage Child Heads of Family Denial of Access to Basic Health Care and Sanitation
Forms of Discrimination and Violence Parents Negative Attitude towards Girls’ Education Domestic Violence Commercial Sexual Exploitation Trafficking for Labor and Sexual Exploitation Hazardous Work Teenage Pregnancy
Role of Education in Addressing Discrimination and Violence against the Girl Child Providing education to the Girl Child is the best way of addressing problems affecting the girls. They should be encouraged to start school at an early age to ensure higher retention and completion rates. Improving access to education and eliminating gender gaps in education.
Conclusion The Innovative Woman Teacher should intervene by focusing on issues that: oEncourage the girls who are already in school to stay in school oProactively address the matters that may lead them to drop out of school
Questions Any questions and comments from the class?