Boys empowered to fight violence |23 September 2017

PS Bonne addressing the gathering at the launch of the symposium

A group of boys from various secondary schools have been empowered to fight against gender-based and domestic violence.

They did so through a symposium held earlier this week.

The symposium called ‘What makes a man’ was organised by the Ministry of Family Affairs and the Everlasting Love Ministry (ELM) to target this growing issue among Seychellois families.

Among the presentations held were dating violence and forms of gender-based violence (GBV) by Elsa Nourrice, GBV among boys - a hidden issue by Jude Fred, importance of spirituality in boys’ lives by Robert Moumou, a father’s heart by Brigitta Camille and values by Gerald Kiwale.

There was also a testimony by men’s award recipient Jude Raoul.

In her opening address the principal secretary for family affairs Marie-Josée Bonne, urged the boys to become men who advocate and are activists against violence in any form, be it against women or other men.

To be a man or to be a gentleman means to recognise that men and women, boys and girls are equal and it is in this understanding that I call upon each and every one of us to be more pro-active in denouncing any form of violence.

“After this forum, emanate love, peace, justice, respect, honesty, humility, hardwork - show good attitude in your schools, your work place and in your homes,” she said.

Chairperson of ELM, Jude Fred, said ELM will continue to raise awareness in the community towards ensuring that such scourges are eradicated.

Plaisance student Joshua Freminot said domestic violence should not be condoned in a relationship.

“They should appreciate, respect and be understanding towards each other to make things work,” he said.

His colleague Daryl Adolph supported the same notion by saying that a relationship is very sacred.

“In a relationship there should be unity for the couple to become stronger,” he said.

Present during the one-day workshop held at the International Conference Centre of Seychelles (ICCS) was the PS for youth and sports Fabien Palmyre, PS for social affairs Linda William-Melanie and other distinguished guests.