Teachers Trained on Positive Discipline Amid Concerns of Child Abuse.
Over 66 teachers from the Nyando area in Kisumu County have undergone training on positive discipline strategies, responding to the growing concerns over child abuse and violence in schools.
The session, led by Dr. Joan Mwende, CEO of Beacon Teachers Africa, highlighted the link between teacher mental health and the increase in violence against students.
Dr. Mwende noted that many teachers are struggling with mental health challenges, which can negatively impact their interactions with children.
To address this, a forum focusing on teacher mental health will be held, where teachers will be assessed and guided by a counselor from the Kenya Counseling and Psychological Association.
The session will also involve tools for assessing trauma, as some teachers are believed to be suffering from unaddressed traumatic experiences.
The session is part of a broader initiative by Beacon Teachers Africa to equip educators with positive discipline approaches. Additionally, they aim to provide mental health support to teachers in order to foster a healthier learning environment.
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Dr. Mwende emphasized that teachers and parents can only impart positivity and peace to children if they themselves are in a stable mental state. In a recent session with parents, it was found that over 20% of participants had experienced childhood trauma, with cases of sexual violence and physical abuse being reported.
The initiative in Kisumu is aimed at covering all sub-counties, but Dr. Mwende urged well-wishers to provide resources to support this cause further. The project seeks to build strong teachers who, in turn, will nurture well-rounded learners.
Viellinah Gitau, Project Coordinator from Save the Children, highlighted the importance of building trust between teachers and students.
She noted that many children suffer in silence and are unaware of how or where to report their experiences.
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Through sessions like these, both teachers and students are empowered to report abuse and trauma, ensuring that children grow without carrying unresolved emotional issues into adulthood.
The initiative also aims to create safe spaces within schools and homes where both teachers and students can thrive together.
Teachers Trained on Positive Discipline Amid Concerns of Child Abuse.
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