The 51 staff members of St. Joseph’s Mother and Child Centre (MCC) at Muketuri participated in a training on Child Safeguarding which was facilitated by representatives from the Catholic Archdiocese of Addis Ababa. The training focused on building awareness and strenghthening the responsibility of all workers in protecting children.

The workshop began with the definition of a “child”: any person from birth to 18 years. This was followed by an explanation of the different stages of a child’s development and the importance of responding to children according to their age and needs.

The facilitators stressed that it is the role and responsibility of staff handling and caring for children to do so in a respectful and appropriate manner. They also shared on how to interact with children in ensuring their safety.

In addition, the participants were told the procedures to follow when a safeguarding concern arises, including who to report to and the steps to be taken to ensure appropriate and sufficient action is taken. The staff members were also encouraged to be vigilant and responsible in protecting every child.

Participants were later divided into groups to share their understanding and work experience, creating an open space for discussion and opportunities for learning from one another. All staff appreciated the workshop and expressed their committment  to being more aware, responsible and active in promoting child protection at the Centre and in the wider community.

by Esther Kerubo MCSPA

Muketuri Mission [Ethiopia]