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HakiElimu

Transforming Lives: Preventing Violence Against Children Across East AfricaT

HakiElimu(Tanzania)

As an expert in education, policy analysis, and advocacy, with almost 23 years of experience, HakiElimu has established a unique position to influence national policy through networks and partnerships with government ministries, MPs, like-minded organizations, and civil society networks. We facilitate and promote the transformation of education, both in and out of schools, by influencing policy-making and their effective implementation, stimulating public dialogue and social change, conducting research, policy analysis and advocacy, and collaborating with partners to advance participation, accountability, transparency, and social justice. Since 2020, HakiElimu has implemented various interventions to prevent violence against children across 127 schools in 22 program Districts. Additionally, HakiElimu has been researching to generate evidence on Violence Against Children and using this evidence to advocate for policy changes aimed at preventing such violence..

Adaptation and Scaling of the Good School Toolkit (GST):

Through participation in the Learning Initiative, HakiElimu adapted and scaled the Good School Toolkit (GST) for the Tanzanian educational context. This toolkit, originally developed in Uganda, was customized to align with Tanzania’s cultural and linguistic needs, supporting the creation of safe, violence-free schools across the country..

Reach and Impact:

  • Geographical Reach: GST was implemented initially in 8 Tanzanian schools and subsequently expanded to more regions across the country.
  • Schools Reached: With continued adaptation and scaling, over 30 schools now actively use the GST, fostering positive changes in school culture.
  • Children Reached: Thousands of Tanzanian students are benefiting from safer, more supportive learning environments created through this intervention.

Positive Changes and Outcomes:

Reduction in Corporal Punishment and Physical Violence: Through the toolkit’s emphasis on positive, non-violent disciplinary methods, schools implementing the GST reported decreased use of corporal punishment and a reduction in physical violence incidents. Teachers now use constructive approaches to discipline, creating a more inclusive school climate.

Empowered Students and Improved Reporting: Translated into Kiswahili, the toolkit has empowered students to understand their rights and feel comfortable reporting cases of abuse. This shift has led to a more open, communicative school environment, where students are active participants in maintaining a safe space..

Community and Policy Engagement: HakiElimu’s involvement in the Learning Initiative provided a platform to connect with national policymakers and community leaders. This engagement facilitated discussions around VAC prevention, promoting the GST as a model for creating safe educational spaces and influencing national approaches to school-based violence prevention.