Haramaya University: Adapting UNICEF’s Role Model Academy Approaches for Preventing and Responding to Violence Against Females at Haramaya University, Ethiopia

Location: Ethiopia

The research team at Haramaya University in Ethiopia aims to reduce gender-based violence (GBV) against female students by adapting UNICEF’s Role Model Academy (RMA) approach. The project will involve creating peer-to-peer engagements, establishing service and referral mechanisms for GBV survivors, and generating evidence-based data for dissemination. The specific objectives include determining the prevalence of GBV, utilizing community conversation approaches to change current norms and practices, and implementing the RMA for effectively responding to and preventing GBV. The project will target female students, staff, and university administrators, and will involve 12 RMA sessions covering specific topics over 6 to 9 months, with 75-100 trainees over two years. The RMA approach provides a safe place for open dialogue and action concerning sensitive issues and promotes community conversations for critical reflection and discussions.

 

Team

ABERA KENAY TURA, PhD 

Principal Investigator

Haramaya University

 

Agumasie Semahegn, PhD,

Tigist Gashaw, MSc

Tara Wilfong, MD, MPH

Tahir Ahmed, PhD