The Gender Affairs Division, for the first term of the 2024 school year, facilitated the Male Engagement and Development Programme (MEND) at two secondary schools: St. Clair Dacon and Adelphi Secondary School.
Over the course of eight weekly sessions, 43 form 3 male students participated in the program. MEND aims to promote healthy masculinity, encourage the development of positive relationships, and empower young men to become active, responsible members of their families and communities. In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, there is an urgent need to address the social challenges facing men and boys, including issues related to gender inequality, domestic violence, and mental health stigma. MEND has been developed as a proactive response to these challenges, focusing on empowering individuals to challenge harmful gender norms and foster a more equitable society.
In addition, the Division also facilitated the Women Empowerment (WEMPOWER) program, which engaged 27 form 3 female students at both St. Clair Dacon and Adelphi Secondary Schools over an eight-week period. This program aims to empower young girls by fostering a positive mindset and equipping them with the tools to influence their futures. Key topics covered included social power and gender, leadership, domestic violence, school-related gender-based violence, HIV awareness, and reinforcing personal goals.
A final wrap-up and certification session was held, bringing together a total of 70 students from both programs. The session celebrated their participation and commitment to the values of gender equality, leadership, and empowerment.
SOURCE: Ministry of National Mobilisation, Social Development, Gender Affairs and Persons with Disabilities
