Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
Warning: Undefined array key 1 in /home4/ireplibc/public_html/liberianewsnetwork/wp-content/plugins/featured-image-from-url/includes/jetpack.php on line 12
— Says Education is the key to breaking the cycle of violence
In a powerful demonstration of resilience and commitment, the West Point Women for Health and Development Organization (WPWHDO) has joined the global campaign to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
On Wednesday, the organization hosted an elaborate event in the Township of West Point as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The organization’s theme, “Promoting Girls’ Quality Education for Gender Equality and Awareness Raising Around the 16 Days of Activism,” highlighted the transformative power of education in combating GBV.
The global theme, “Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls”, underscored the universal nature of the campaign, which runs annually from November 25 to December 10. Orange, the color symbolizing a brighter future free from violence, has swept across Liberia and West Point.
Supported by the British Embassy in Monrovia and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), the event brought together local leaders, beneficiaries, especially the girls, and international partners to address the root causes and consequences of GBV.
Madam Nelly S. Cooper, Executive Director of WPWHDO, delivered an impassioned overview of the organization’s journey, reflecting on its critical role played in the community.
“We began this work in 2002, when West Point was known for violence and neglect,” Madam Cooper said. “The civil war in 2003 halted our progress, but by 2005, we regrouped, determined to fight for the rights of women and girls in our community.”
She highlighted WPWHDO’s success in mobilizing local and international support. “Ambassadors from the United States, Great Britain, Sweden, and Finland have all visited West Point because of our work. We are proud to be recognized for making a difference,” she declared.
Madam Cooper also underscored the role of WPWHDO in promoting girls’ education. “When we saw young girls forced to drop out of school due to pregnancy, we stepped in,” she said. “Thanks to support from the British Embassy, we’ve helped over 100 girls return to school. Education is the key to breaking the cycle of violence.”
Robertetta Rose, Program Officer at the British Embassy in Monrovia, expressed her admiration for WPWHDO’s efforts.
“It is always a privilege to stand with the women of West Point. This event is a testament to the power of collaboration,” Rose said. “Together, we can raise our voices to end violence, promote equality, and empower survivors.”
Rose recounted her personal connection to the cause. “I remember the stigma young mothers faced when I was in school. To see these girls overcoming such challenges fills me with pride,” she shared. “The progress we’ve seen over the past three years, with some girls advancing from ninth to twelfth grade, is proof of what can be achieved when we unite.”
She concluded with a call to action. “Every act of support matters. Let us continue to stand together and make a difference for women and girls,” Rose urged.
A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion featuring beneficiaries who shared their inspiring stories. Aminata Sheriff, a teenage mother and program participant, described how WPWHDO changed her life.
“I thought my dream of education was over when I got pregnant,” Sheriff admitted. “But WPWHDO gave me hope and support. Today, I am back in school and determined to create a better future for myself and my child.”
Another participant, Matilda, reflected on her journey. “It wasn’t easy to return to school as a young mother, but WPWHDO’s encouragement kept me going. Now, I’m in eleventh grade, and I know I can achieve anything,” she said.
These stories of transformation highlighted the profound impact of WPWHDO’s work and the critical importance of addressing GBV through education and empowerment.
The event reaffirmed WPWHDO’s unwavering commitment to the fight against GBV. Madam Cooper closed the program with an emotional plea for continued support.
“When a girl is educated, she breaks barriers and transforms her community,” Cooper said. “Let us continue this fight together. By uniting our voices and resources, we can create a future where no girl has to live in fear.”
The day’s activities demonstrated the power of grassroots activism and international partnership. As the 16 Days of Activism continues, WPWHDO and its supporters stand as a testament to the resilience and strength of women determined to build a better, safer world.
