The Raissa Child Protection Initiative (TRCPI) is urging parents and guardians to pay equal attention to boys when it comes to sexual abuse, stressing that boys are also vulnerable and must be equally protected.

The call was made during the launch of a year-long anti-child sexual abuse campaign by the child-focused NGO on Wednesday at the Dawu Presbyterian Junior High School in the Eastern Region.

The campaign seeks to create awareness about crimes against children, how children can seek help, and practical ways to reduce their risk of becoming victims. It will involve school visits for educational talks as well as community engagements, particularly in areas where child vulnerability is high. The campaign will also focus on encouraging children to be morally upright and remain committed to their education.

Addressing the pupils, the Founder of the Raissa Child Protection Initiative, Raissa Sambou, advised children to seek prompt help from parents, teachers, or other trusted adults if they ever find themselves in situations where they could be abused.

She cautioned against the common belief that only girls are affected by sexual abuse, explaining that boys can also be victims and often suffer in silence due to fear, shame, or stigma.

Ms Sambou urged parents and guardians to be intentional about protecting both boys and girls, noting that ignoring the vulnerability of boys leaves them exposed to abuse.

She further advised the pupils to remain focused on their books, avoid bad company, and live morally upright lives, stressing that sexual abuse and sexual immorality pose serious threats to a bright future.

A member of the TRCPI team, Ms Stephanie Birikorang, cautioned pupils against bullying or teasing colleagues who may have experienced abuse, explaining that such actions discourage victims from speaking up and seeking help.

She encouraged the children to show love, protect one another, and create a safe environment where everyone feels confident to report abuse without fear.

Also present at the event was the Founder of AJ Helps the Needy, Mrs Anita Opoku-Appiah, who urged the pupils to stay focused on their education and desist from making excuses such as hunger or lack of sanitary pads to engage in sexual immorality.

She encouraged children facing challenges to speak up and seek help rather than putting themselves at risk.

The Headteacher of Dawu Presbyterian Junior High School expressed appreciation to the TRCPI team, noting that such interactions play a critical role in shaping the behaviour and mindset of children.

TRCPI reaffirmed its belief that sensitisation equals prevention and pledged to continue educating children, parents, and communities to ensure that both boys and girls are protected and able to grow in safe and supportive environments.