In an effort to address the growing cases of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) in higher learning institutions, UNESCO has launched the Safer Campuses Campaign under the “Our Rights, Our Lives, Our Future Plus” (O3PLUS) initiative. This transformative campaign is being implemented in collaboration with the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) and the University of Nairobi (UoN).
The campaign was officially inaugurated in Mombasa on Friday, where students from KMTC and UoN marched from Mombasa town to the KMTC campus near Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital to raise awareness. The initiative focuses on empowering young people to achieve positive health, education, and gender equality while also addressing the impact of HIV/AIDS.
Tackling the Prevalence of GBV
UNESCO East Africa education chief Lamin Sow revealed that Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu were chosen as the primary locations for the programme based on data that showed these cities have the highest prevalence of GBV. A situational study conducted prior to the campaign provided evidence for these targeted interventions.
“By institutionalising these initiatives and building the capacities of universities, we aim to ensure that these efforts endure beyond the project’s lifespan,” Sow said. He also highlighted that the programme includes the establishment of gender desks and wellness centres within campuses, which aim to reduce HIV infections, unintended pregnancies, and GBV.
KMTC Mombasa Campus Principal Jacinta Mukonzo emphasized the urgent need to challenge societal norms that normalize violence against women. “In our society, it is often seen as ‘normal’ for women to face violence. Is that normal? We must challenge this perception and raise our voices against it,” Mukonzo said.
Creating Safe Spaces
A critical aspect of the Safer Campuses Campaign is the creation of safe spaces within campuses. Mukonzo elaborated on the importance of these spaces, noting that they serve as havens where students can seek support during times of distress. “A safe space means having a place where you can go when distressed, when you need to talk to someone, or when you need help. Our institution now provides such a space,” she said.
She pledged her commitment to ensuring that no one feels unsafe in the institution. As of now, the campaign has been rolled out across three KMTC campuses and eight UoN campuses located in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu counties.
Collective Responsibility
UoN Mombasa Campus Director Prof. Sarah Kinyanjui underscored the collective responsibility of addressing GBV, pointing out that it can affect anyone. “GBV can affect anyone it could happen to you or your family. We all have a role to play in addressing it,” she said.
The campaign launch also coincides with preparations for the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed from November 25 to December 10.
Holistic Support for Students
As part of the initiative, youth-friendly spaces are being inaugurated on campuses to provide comprehensive support. These spaces offer services in sexual and reproductive health, GBV, and mental health support. Sow commended the institutions for their efforts, saying, “These are exemplary efforts that demonstrate how collaborative actions can significantly reduce HIV infections, unintended pregnancies, and GBV.”
By empowering students, building institutional capacity, and fostering a culture of respect and equality, the Safer Campuses Campaign aims to create lasting change. The initiative sets a precedent for other institutions to follow, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for all.
As the campaign gains momentum, it offers hope for a future where higher education institutions serve not only as places of learning but also as safe havens for every student.
