CSO Network Takes Migration Sensitisation to Anambra Teachers, Students
Kenechukwu Ofomah,Awka
As part of efforts to deepen awareness of the dangers of irregular migration—especially among the youths ,the Anambra Civil Society Network on Migration and Development (CSONetMADE) has embarked on an awareness programme on migration deceit at Land of Goshen International College, Awka, Anambra State.
The programme aims to educate the public on the dangers of irregular migration, including human trafficking, organ harvesting, and exploitation.
The major targets of the initiative are youths, students, and communities, who are often susceptible to the antics of traffickers that lure them with mouth-watering job offers.
The session was highly engaging and interactive, with students actively participating and asking insightful questions on grey areas, reflecting their curiosity and eagerness to learn.
Addressing the students and teachers at the college, the Anambra State CSONetMADE Coordinator, Miss Eucharia Onyemaobi, explained that the programme focuses on promoting safe migration while highlighting the dangers associated with irregular migration and human trafficking.
While taking her audience through the concept of migration, the risks and consequences of irregular migration, and the realities of human trafficking, Onyemaobi expressed excitement over the level of participation and interest shown by the students.
According to her, irregular migration has shattered the laudable dreams of many young people due to their ignorance of the tactics of traffickers, hence the need to take the campaign directly to schools.
“The idea behind bringing this sensitisation here is to ensure that you are not taken unawares,” Onyemaobi told the students, maintaining that the message of safe and regular migration must be embraced by all stakeholders.
Acknowledging the critical role teachers play in tackling migration deceit, the Anambra CSONetMADE coordinator stressed the need for them to understand the dynamics and trends in human trafficking so as to adequately educate their students on the issue.
“It is important that the teachers and management of the school understand what is at stake—our children are being trafficked daily, and many of them end up dead or dehumanised.
“We must therefore begin to make deliberate efforts to keep our young people aware of the gimmicks of these enemies, who deceive them with enticing offers abroad.
“We must teach these students that there is no ‘free lunch’ anywhere.
“Yes, there may be greener pastures in developed countries, but they must be well prepared before embarking on such journeys; otherwise, they may end up being used, abused, or even killed. Teaching our young ones the values of hard work and diligence is very important. They should also learn to confide in their parents and teachers when they are confused about such enticing offers,” she said.
Onyemaobi reaffirmed the commitment of Anambra CSONetMADE under her leadership to continuous advocacy, sensitisation, and awareness creation on safe and informed migration.
On her part, the school proprietor, Mrs. Obianuju Mercy Okeke, expressed the management’s strong interest in supporting the initiative and committed to inviting the team for future engagements, including PTA meetings.
She noted that this would ensure sustained awareness rather than one-off interventions.
