Togo: A right to education free from violence

In the rural communes of northern Togo, CREUSET is assisting 50 villages to develop up a community charter to protect children from harmful traditional practices. Hereby, the access to school education for children who are victims or at risk of early marriage, child trafficking or social exclusion/exorcism is of particular concern. However, many children who attend school find their rights violated once again, due to the violence that occurs on a daily basis in schools.

The central aim of this project is thus to curb physical and psychological violence in schools. Education officials and decision-makers at local and national level are trained and accompanied to assume their responsibilities in making schools safe places for children. In addition, members of local groups, school associations, parents' associations, communities, the media, CSO networks, etc. pool their energies to assist and monitor the process of eradicating violence in schools.

Overall objective: Schools in rural regions of Norhern Togo places of safety and participation for children and young people.

Project aim: In 16 schools in four rural prefectures in Northern Togo, children experience non-violent education that respects children's rights.

Specific objectives:

1. 450 state agents in the education system have knowledge and know-how to provide non-violent education that promotes child development.
2. Members of 120 local associations have know-how to promote non-violent education in their communities.
3. 480 members of children's and youth clubs in the project area have knowledge and skills to advocate for non-violent education in their communities.
4. Media, networks, coalitions and CSOs specialized in the education sector have the necessary know-how to contribute to non-violent education at the local, regional and national levels.

• Informing about the Law 2022-020 on the protection of students and trainees in educational institutions.
• Training teachers and school principals, local elected officials, religious and traditional leaders, representatives of local associations, children's and youth clubs, and media people.
• Advocacy work at national, local and regional level
• Visits to schools and data collection on violence and early pregnancies.
• Conducting community forums and awareness-raising events, media coverage
• Promoting civic involvement of children and young people

Project cost: 635,800 Euros

Funding partners:

• German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
• Donations

And you? We are looking for further financial partners for this project!

Please feel free to contact us or donate with the purpose "Project Togo - child-friendly schools".

Cover picture: Children in Northern Togo on their way to school.

© Luise Hoffmann