The Oyo State Government, working with the United Nations Children’s Fund and Value Female Network Africa, has started the Gender Transformative Positive Parenting Programme 1.0.

The initiative began with a two-day training for community facilitators held in Ibadan on September 2 and 3.

UNICEF Child Protection Specialist Denis Onoise said parents and caregivers form the first line of protection around children. Strengthening their knowledge helps them spot risks early, prevent violence and connect children who need help to the right services.

Value Female Network Africa Executive Director Costly Aderibigbe-Saba explained that positive parenting is about creating homes where children feel safe, respected and supported. She said the programme also addresses harmful practices and gives parents tools to guide their children without violence.

The training prepared facilitators who will lead parenting sessions in selected communities over a 10-week period. About 800 parents and caregivers in Ibarapa North East, Ibarapa South West, Egbeda and Akinyele local government areas are expected to take part.

Topics covered include positive discipline, parent-child communication, gender-equitable caregiving, digital safety and the prevention of sexual violence, child marriage and other harmful practices. Officials hope the community-based approach will lead to lasting changes in homes across the state.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper