S.V.S.G And UNICEF Collaborate To End Violence Against Children
S.V.S.G And UNICEF Community Prevention Program.
Photo: Supplied
The violent dispute between secondary schools that occurred Friday last week, has prompted parents, and youth from the village of Fagali'i to take part in (S.V.S.G) Samoa Victim Support Group's "Community Prevention Program '' to combat and end violence towards children.
The program is a part of the child protection activities implemented by the Samoa Victim Support Group, with help and funding from UNICEF Pacific, and focuses on social and behaviour change communication modalities.
The Community Prevention Program provided a sustained community dialogue for the adolescents and parents Fagali'i, and also discussed life skills development, and positive discipline parenting for those that took part in the workshop.
According to Reverend Petaia Leavai of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Fagalii, “Changing people's mindset takes time, but if we're willing to take that step, then change is inevitable. The alternative parenting learnt from the Program not only protects our children, but also safeguard parents.”
A take home message for the community from Fagalii on ending violence against children, is to live by the greatest commandment, to love. For the parents to love their children, and vice versa, it requires the presence of peace and love inside every home.
According to the community at Fagalii, this objective is achieved through allocating enough time to spend with the children, and allowing them to know their parents better. The dialogue amongst the adolescents raised awareness on the seriousness of cyber bullying, and a series of social issues that arise from it.
The adolescents were also willing to share what they've learnt with their friends and family members, to ensure that they will not fall victim to cyber bullying and are able to protect themselves should they become victims.
The President of S.V.S.G,Siliniu Lina Chang, reiterated that, "S.V.S.G appreciates the ongoing partnership with UNICEF Pacific, to explore preventive and early interventions which allow for more comprehensive child protection programming in Samoa.”
“For the students in high school who have been bullied, belittled or abused, please call us on the Helpline Number 800-7874 should you need someone to talk to,” stated Siliniu.