COMMUNITY PREVENTION PROGRAM TO EVAC REACHES ASAGA SAVAII
(Photo: Supplied)
In a bid to combat violence against children in Samoa, the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) has extended its Community Child Protection Program to five additional communities, comprising three villages and two colleges. Partnering with UNICEF Pacific, the program's latest initiative commenced in Asaga, Savaii, marking a significant milestone in the organization's ongoing efforts to foster safer environments for children across the nation.
Notably, the decision to initiate workshops in Asaga arose from a special request made by the community leaders, underscoring their recognition of the urgent need for preventive measures and early interventions. SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang articulated the significance of this request, highlighting the growing awareness within communities regarding the effectiveness of such programs in promoting familial and societal well-being.
The workshop in Asaga is structured into two distinct segments tailored to address the needs of different demographic groups. The Positive Parenting Program endeavors to equip parents with effective strategies for nurturing and guiding their children. While some parents initially found the information challenging, their willingness to engage in dialogue demonstrates a commendable openness to new approaches. Siliniu Lina Chang noted the receptiveness of Asaga parents, acknowledging the departure from traditional beliefs and the embracing of novel concepts aimed at enhancing family dynamics.
The second segment focuses on Life Skills Development for Adolescents, aiming to empower young individuals with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life. Participants from Asaga reported tangible benefits from the program, emphasizing personal growth and improved relationships, particularly with their parents. By fostering a deeper understanding of interpersonal dynamics, the initiative aims to mitigate the prevalence of low self-esteem among Samoan youth, thereby promoting healthier social interactions.
The program's inception in Asaga represents the latest chapter in SVSG and UNICEF Pacific's collaborative efforts to foster community-led initiatives for social and behavioral change. Building upon the success of the pilot program conducted between 2020 and 2022, which engaged seven communities, the current endeavor seeks to facilitate sustained dialogue and engagement among key stakeholders, including parents, village leaders, women council members, faith leaders, and the youth.
SVSG extends gratitude to UNICEF Pacific for its unwavering support in the fight against violence targeting children in Samoa. The program's positive impact on communities underscores the importance of continued investment in initiatives that promote positive discipline and equip the younger generation with invaluable life skills.
As the program extends its reach to more communities, the collective commitment to safeguarding the well-being of children remains steadfast, affirming Samoa's dedication to nurturing a future generation free from violence and equipped with the resilience to thrive in an ever-changing world.