Teenage Network has launched first of its kind Male Peer Educators Resource Toolkit in collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria. The toolkit is aimed at empowering young men to challenge and transform harmful gender norms, while also promoting gender equality within their communities. The toolkit offers male peer educators essential resources, including discussion guides, activities, and practical examples, to engage their peers in conversations around gender equality, respect, and gender justice. We believe that men are key stakeholders in the fight against gender-based violence. While men can be perpetrators, enablers and sustainers of social norms that exacerbate violence against women and girls, they can also be agents of social change. This is why we are partnering with the men to transform harmful gender norms. By equipping young men with the tools to challenge traditional gender roles, the toolkit aims to foster a culture of mutual respect, while combating violence and discrimination.
The toolkit launch brought together stakeholders including the development partners, community men, media and relevant government agency. Some of the stakeholders who applaud Teenage Network for the innovative toolkit includes: the Programs Manager, ActionAid Nigeria, the Chief of Party USAID SCALE project, the Country Lead Westminster Foundation, the National Coordinator for Adolescent Programs UNFPA, the Director of Programs at YIAGA Africa, 15 media organizations and representatives from 25 civil society organizations working to advance gender equality in Nigeria. Their presence underscored the importance of collective action in addressing gender norms and promoting positive change.
Through this collaboration with ActionAid Nigeria, Teenage Network is contributing to a broader movement to transform gender norms, empower youth, and build a more inclusive and equitable society. The toolkit is therefore open to use for all partners.