Abuja: Neem Foundation and Global Survivors Fund (GSF) have advocated a holistic educational approach for the reparation of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and their children in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Fatima Akilu, the Executive Director of Neem Foundation, emphasized this need during a 'Policy Dialogue on Education as Reparation for Survivors and Children affected by Conflict-Related Sexual Violence' held in Abuja. Akilu highlighted that such an approach would help survivors and their children regain control of their lives, dignity, and place in society.
She stated that the foundation has engaged stakeholders, governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and the diplomatic community to prioritize education as a form of reparation for those affected by conflict-related sexual violence in Nigeria. Akilu noted that education as reparation involves tailored measures addressing the unique needs of affected children, combining trauma-responsive methods, flexible learning, economic support, and community engagement to ensure education is accessible and transformative.
The Neem project in Borno, with the Lafiya Sarari school at its heart, serves as a model where nearly 80% of enrolled students have been affected by conflict-related sexual violence. The curriculum is designed to promote values such as peace, respect, and integrity, countering the hate that fueled their trauma. The learning process is complemented by mental health care, psychosocial support, and basic medical services, providing a lifeline for children carrying physical and emotional scars of violence.
Akilu mentioned that training for more teachers is underway, with plans to expand this educational model across Nigeria and internationally. She believes that the changes observed at Lafiya Sarari can be replicated for children in communities affected by sexual violence worldwide, positioning Nigeria as a leader in this initiative.
Neem and GSF started a six-year collaboration in February 2024 in Maiduguri, delivering trauma-responsive education to children aged eight to 14, many of whom were affected by Boko Haram's insurgency. This comprehensive education program creates safe spaces for healing and social reintegration, demonstrating a practical step towards justice.
Esther Dingemans, Executive Director at GSF, echoed Akilu's sentiments, stating that education is a frequently requested form of reparation by survivors, offering economic and social empowerment, reducing future abuse risks, and promoting peace and reconciliation. Dingemans emphasized that education in this context is a right and a response to harm, transforming lives with the right approach.
The project is supported by the Governments of the United Kingdom, Korea, Japan, France, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, Open Society Foundations, The European Commission, Education Cannot Wait (UNICEF), The Catena Foundation, UN Women, the Borno State Ministry of Education, Northeast Development Commission, and the Damnaish Human Capacity Building Initiative.