The Girl Child Empowerment Docket of the Rotary Club of Bwebajja has been making significant strides in mentoring sessions aimed at fostering a supportive environment for both girls and boys in local schools. This initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle the barriers that hinder girls from realizing their full potential and aspirations in Uganda.
Since the beginning of the new Rotary year in July, the team has successfully conducted mentoring sessions across three mixed secondary schools: Kisubi Mapeera S.S, Elite High School, and Boston High School. Notably, attendance figures reflect the growing interest and engagement in these sessions:
- Kisubi Mapeera S.S: 56 students participated on 16th
- Elite High School, Entebbe: 210 students attended on 23rd
- Boston High School, Mpala: 153 students reached on 4th
Recognizing the school environment as an ideal platform for reaching a larger audience, the sessions were designed to engage students in meaningful discussions on critical issues such as peer pressure, mental health, and transformational leadership.
The mentoring approach was tailored to suit the diverse needs of the students. Techniques included group discussions to encourage open dialogue among peers, brainstorming sessions to foster collaborative problem-solving, speed mentoring for quick, focused interactions with young leaders from various universities, and one-on-one counselling to address personal challenges affecting academic performance and relationships. These methodologies not only provided valuable information but also encouraged students to reflect on their identities and develop essential social skills.
The sessions covered a range of topics relevant to students’ lives, particularly those transitioning to higher education. Key areas included building mental resilience, understanding sexual harassment and reporting mechanisms, networking strategies, myths and truths about campus life, and financial management tips. By equipping students with this knowledge, the Girl Child Empowerment team aims to prepare them for the challenges they may face in university settings.
A crucial aspect of this initiative is the recognition that empowering girls must go hand in hand with engaging boys. Boys should be included in empowerment programs to foster a culture of positive masculinity. This involves teaching boys to practice empathy, respect, and nurturing behaviors, which are essential for breaking down stereotypes and promoting gender equality.
In addition to the group sessions, follow-up support was established through telephone counseling, ensuring that students have ongoing access to guidance as they navigate their academic and personal challenges. This holistic approach aims to cultivate informed decision-making among youth, empowering them to pursue their aspirations confidently.
With the knowledge gained from these mentoring sessions, students are continuously developing social survival skills, reflecting on and redefining their personal identities, which positions them to make informed choices about their lives and ultimately achieve their aspirations.
The mentoring sessions led by the Girl Child Empowerment team at the Rotary Club of Bwebajja demonstrate the club’s commitment to creating a safer, fairer space for all young people. By addressing key issues and providing a platform for both girls and boys to openly share and learn, the sessions contribute to shifting societal norms and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
By Rtn Lillian Nalwoga
Girl Child Empowerment Officer
RC Bwebajja
