The Centre for the Advancement and Protection of the Rights of Vulnerable People (CAPRIGHTS-VP) has established the Child Rights Ambassadors Forum in four Alimosho secondary schools to empower students to promote rights, safety and protection.
CAPRIGHTS-VP Communication Officer, Chinecherem Ugwueze, said in a statement on Wednesday that the forum was established at Havannah College, Igando; Ipaja Junior Grammar School, Ipaja; Alimosho Junior Grammar School, Egbeda; and Dom Grace School, Idimu.
The initiative equips students with knowledge, confidence and leadership skills to promote children’s rights, support peers and create safer school environments.
CAPRIGHTS-VP implemented the initiative with support from The Freedom Fund and funding from the United States Department of State under its programme addressing exploitative child domestic work.
The organisation developed a Child Rights Manual covering children’s rights, safeguarding, personal safety and available support systems.
In collaboration with school counsellors, facilitators used discussions, practical exercises, role plays and real-life case studies to train the students.
The students learnt about children’s rights, child abuse and exploitation, child domestic work experiences, agency building and advocacy.
A Child Rights Ambassador said the training increased her confidence to speak up when something was wrong and to encourage others to seek help.
The Child Rights Ambassadors Forum also provides a platform for student leadership and peer advocacy, with members serving as role models for respect, inclusion and child protection.
Members collaborate with teachers and counsellors to raise awareness, identify concerns early and guide students towards appropriate support.
CAPRIGHTS-VP also educated students on reporting abuse, neglect, violence, exploitation and exploitative child domestic work.
The organisation distributed Information, Education and Communication materials containing child protection information and referral contacts.
CAPRIGHTS-VP said protecting children was a shared responsibility involving students, teachers, parents and communities.
“Every child deserves to learn in an environment where they are safe, respected and empowered.
“Through the Child Rights Ambassadors Forum, we are nurturing a new generation of young leaders who will champion children’s rights and contribute to safer schools and stronger communities,” the organisation said.
