Boys’ inclusion key to protecting girls, youth leaders told
Makerere University Guild President Gracious Kadondi said many initiatives aimed at protecting girls often overlook the role boys can play in preventing harassment and fostering healthy relationships.
From right: Jeninah Namuli Miracle, Guild President Gracious Kadondi, Deputy Prime Minister Patricia Mutesi, Barbara Kaija and Hillary Asiimwe pose for a photo during the Girls Rise & Shine celebration. (Courtesy)
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Efforts to protect girls from sexual harassment and create safer learning environments will only succeed if boys are actively involved in the conversation, youth leaders have said.
This was discussed during the Girls Rise & Shine celebration held at Makerere University Swimming Pool Grounds in Kampala on Sunday (October 24) as part of activities marking the International Day of the Girl Child.
While the event focused on empowering girls, speakers repeatedly stressed that lasting change requires both boys and girls to work together in promoting respect, safety and responsible behaviour.
Makerere University Guild President Gracious Kadondi said many initiatives aimed at protecting girls often overlook the role boys can play in preventing harassment and fostering healthy relationships.
Makerere University Guild Council Deputy Prime Minister Patricia Mutesi said organisers deliberately involved boys in the event to ensure they become part of the solution rather than remain spectators in discussions affecting young people.
According to Mutesi, bringing both sexes together encourages dialogue, mutual understanding and shared responsibility in addressing challenges facing students.
Former Vision Group Editor-in-Chief Barbara Kaija, who was the main speaker, echoed the same message, arguing that empowering girls should not be viewed as a ‘girls-only agenda.’
“The boy child must walk alongside the girl child if she is to shine,” she said.
Kaija urged young people to embrace values of integrity, purpose and service, noting that true success is built on character rather than popularity.
“Shining is not about being seen; it is about being useful, with integrity,” she added.
Participants engaged in poetry performances, music, art exhibitions and interactive conversations designed to help students express themselves while learning about responsible conduct and healthy relationships.
Female Youth Representative on the National Women Council Hillary Asiimwe said creative platforms such as poetry and art can help young people better understand consent and recognise inappropriate behaviour.
She noted that many students still lack adequate awareness about sexual harassment and how to respond when confronted with it.
Asiimwe also warned against sexual exploitation in exchange for academic favours or financial support, urging students to seek guidance from trusted mentors and make decisions that safeguard their future.
She further advised young people to avoid drug and alcohol abuse and instead be mindful of peer influence.
The event attracted national youth leaders, members of the Uganda National Students Association (UNSA), Makerere University students, and young people from surrounding communities.