The Girls in Tech Initiative Bayelsa participated in an insightful Pre–World Human Rights Day Interactive Session with the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Committee on Human Rights. The engagement provided a strategic platform to address human rights concerns within the state, exchange experiences, and propose practical solutions to ongoing challenges.
The session was chaired by Hon. Ted Elemeforo, Chairman of the Human Rights Committee, who emphasized the House’s commitment to promoting and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. Discussions centered on real-life human rights stories, enforcement gaps, community vulnerability, protection systems, and the need for strengthened collaboration across sectors.
Several civil society organizations and development partners were in attendance, including:
NAPTIP, Awagbv, DO Foundation, Thriving Hopes Development Initiatives, FOMWAN, BANGOF, Collins Cocodia Foundation, and the Girls in Tech Initiative Bayelsa.
Contributions highlighted the urgency of:
Enhancing awareness on human rights at community and institutional levels
Strengthening reporting structures
Leveraging digital tools for documentation and advocacy
Improving legal and protective support for victims
Fostering stronger partnerships between government and civil society
As an organization dedicated to empowering young women through technology, The Girls in Tech Initiative Bayelsa participated actively by offering perspectives on:
The role of technology in reporting and tracking human rights abuses and abusers
The need for digital literacy among young people for safer online and offline environments
Collaborative approaches that leverage tech tools to support victims and raise awareness.
The interactive session showcased the growing commitment of lawmakers and civil society to curb human rights violations in Bayelsa State. Girls in Tech Initiative Bayelsa is honoured to have contributed to this crucial dialogue and remains dedicated to supporting all efforts that advance justice, human dignity, and the protection of vulnerable groups.
Signed:
Jennifer Gbonhinbor
Director, Programs – Gitibayelsa