Addis Ababa — As part of its broader efforts to prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) among young people, Save Your Generation Ethiopia (SYGE) conducted drug and substance abuse prevention training in targeted schools, with particular attention to young and adolescent girls.
The training aimed to increase students’ awareness of the risks and consequences associated with drug and substance abuse and to strengthen their capacity to make informed and healthy decisions. Participants discussed substance-use risk factors, peer pressure, prevention strategies, and the importance of seeking support when facing challenges.
The activity also highlighted the connection between substance abuse and vulnerability to violence and other protection risks. By addressing factors that can increase young people’s vulnerability, the training contributes to broader GBV prevention efforts and promotes safer environments for adolescent girls and other students.
Through interactive discussions and awareness-raising activities, participants were encouraged to develop positive life skills, build confidence, resist harmful peer influence, and support their peers in making healthy choices.
The school-based intervention forms part of SYGE’s integrated approach to GBV prevention, recognizing schools as important platforms for reaching young people with information, life skills, and protection messages.
