Empowering Youths to Advocate Against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

This course is designed to equip young advocates with the knowledge, skills, and tools to lead impactful campaigns against FGM. Combining foundational knowledge, practical advocacy strategies, media tools, and sustainability frameworks, the course ensures that participants are prepared to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.

Course Objectives

This course aims to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to actively advocate for the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). It provides a comprehensive understanding of FGM, including its health, social, legal, and psychological impacts, while emphasizing the role of youth-driven advocacy in policy change, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns.

By the end of this course, participants should be able to:

1. Understand the issue – Recognize the cultural, social, and legal dimensions of FGM.
2. Develop advocacy skills – Learn how to use media, policy engagement, and grassroots activism.
3. Engage stakeholders effectively – Identify and collaborate with key players in FGM eradication.
4. Take action – Design and implement advocacy campaigns to drive real change.

The ultimate goal is to empower a new generation of leaders committed to ending FGM through informed, strategic, and sustainable advocacy efforts.

Course Structure

The course is divided into three parts, with each part containing three modules (a total of 9 modules). Each module includes a combination of short videos, quizzes and practical assignments.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand FGM and Its Impact
   • Define Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and its various types.
   • Explain the health, psychological, social, and economic consequences of FGM.
   • Analyze the historical and cultural context of FGM globally and in Nigeria.
2. Navigate Legal Frameworks
   • Identify key international and national laws against FGM.
   • Understand the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) and other relevant policies.
   • Discuss challenges in enforcing FGM-related laws and possible solutions.
3. Develop Effective Advocacy Skills
   • Differentiate between various types of advocacy (policy, community, media, etc.).
   • Utilize media platforms for advocacy, storytelling, and awareness campaigns.
   • Engage communities and policymakers to drive legal and social change.
4. Map and Engage Stakeholders
   • Identify key stakeholders (government, NGOs, religious leaders, etc.).
   • Develop strategies to collaborate with influential individuals and organizations.
   • Build networks to strengthen advocacy efforts.
5. Overcome Barriers to Advocacy
   • Recognize challenges young advocates face, such as cultural resistance and limited resources.
   • Develop problem-solving strategies to navigate advocacy roadblocks.
   • Gain confidence to lead community discussions and influence policy changes.
6. Take Action and Drive Change
   • Design and implement a youth-led FGM advocacy initiative.
   • Measure the impact of advocacy efforts using relevant tools and techniques.
   • Inspire and mobilize peers to join the fight against FGM.

This course will equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to be effective change agents in the fight against FGM.