The member organization of the Kosova Women’s Network (KWN), “Humanus Vita”, held the first of a series of information sessions for students in the town of Drenas. The sessions are part of the “Awareness of young people about harassment and sexual assault and the importance of early reporting” initiative, which received funding from the 15th round of the Kosovo Women’s Fund (KWF).
The first sessions were held on October 21st at the Technical High School “Fehmi Lladrovci” in Drenas, where students discussed about their perceptions of harassment and sexual assault.
Trainer Valentina Bejtullahu, explained the concepts of gender-based violence and sexual assault, and informed the participating students about the local and international legal framework that regulates this issue. Particular attention was paid to combating gender stereotypes, identified as some of the most common causes of sexual harassment.
“If there were no gender stereotypes from society and the media, there would be fewer harassment cases. Therefore, young people should avoid generalisations, be open-minded, and make the fight for equality part of their daily lives,” she added.
Meanwhile, student Arlinda Bërbatovci said that everyone should have the freedom to be themselves, without fearing harassment or prejudice.
“One of the first things we are judged on is the way we dress. But this in no way gives anyone the right to harass someone else,” she said.
The second part of the sessions was dedicated to the importance of immediate reporting of sexual assault and harassment to the responsible institutions. Students were advised to work closely with school pedagogues and management, and their families.
A total of 720 students are expected to benefit from this cycle of information sessions with middle school and high school students in the municipality of Drenas, while the activities will continue with the local educational institutions.
This initiative of “Humanus Vita” is supported by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), through KWN’s “Further Advancement of Women’s Rights in Kosovo II” initiative, co-financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), through the Swedish Embassy in Prishtina.
