Shielding children from violence.

Village communities are taking a stronger position towards ending violence against children.

During the last week of March, the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) and UNICEF Pacific responded to a request from the traditional leaders of the Asaga village in Savaii, who had requested preventative and early intervention programs to empower their communities in their role to protect children and to fostering a safe environment for their youth.

The SVSG and UNICEF Pacific responded by extending the Community Child Protection program to three villages including Asaga and two colleges in Savaii.

The President of the SVSG President Siliniu Lina Chang eloquently captured this sentiment, highlighting the significance of workshops within the community.

"This request is a testament to the growing awareness of the importance of preventive measures and early interventions," remarked Siliniu Lina Chang.

 "Our Community Child Protection trainings  are making a tangible difference in the villages and homes, and people are beginning to see the effectiveness of these programs."

The training programme is divided into two parts. The first segment focuses on empowering parents with effective parenting strategies, nurturing a generation of caregivers equipped to foster safe and nurturing environments at home.

While the parents at first were faced with uncertainty,  eventually they embraced the newfound insights, recognizing the transformative power of positive parenting.

Simultaneously, the program extends its reach to adolescents, offering them essential life skills to navigate the complexities of emotions and relationships. Through interactive workshops, young minds in Asaga and beyond are empowered to build resilience, forge positive connections, and distinguish between playful banter and hurtful words that can erode self-esteem.

The effort to protect children in Samoa started in 2020 when SVSG and UNICEF Pacific began working together in seven communities. Parents and village leaders joined in, understanding that change must start at the local level.

After each workshop, SVSG thanked UNICEF Pacific for their help. They are committed to empowering communities, hoping for a future where every child in Samoa can grow up happy and safe.

By working together closely and starting from the basics, SVSG and UNICEF Pacific are not just keeping children safe now; they are building a brighter future where every child's wellbeing is a top priority.