On the occasion of International Women's Day, the Association "Toujours Kennedyennes" (TK) organized a panel discussion on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, entitled: What sustainable multisectoral responses to gender-based violence? This initiative aims to establish intergenerational dialogue and interactive exchanges between former students of Kennedy High School and the younger generation. The objective is to teach young girls to be aware of acts of harassment and sexual abuse, while instilling in them the reflexes necessary to prevent gender-based violence (GBV).

The association's president, Coumba Ngouye Thiam, seized this opportunity to inform and raise awareness about girls' right to protection. "This day, intended for students at Kennedy High School as part of our 'Wakhtane Ak Souniou Doome' concept, is inspired by a moving scene: a girl being groped on a bus without daring to react. We want to equip girls to overcome their shyness, know they have rights, and learn to denounce gender-based violence. That's the whole point of this meeting," she explained.

  A plea for tougher sanctions and better support for victims

A former student at John Kennedy High School, Coumba Ngouye Thiam did not fail to express her frustration at the lack of enforcement of the conventions ratified by Senegal. She deplores the frequent absence of implementing decrees allowing for the effective implementation of these commitments. "Senegal has ratified numerous conventions, but too often, implementing decrees are lacking to take concrete action. The criminalization of rape is a major step forward, but penalties must be more severe to deter sexual predators. We also advocate for a strengthening of the reception of victims in police stations. A victim must not be revictimized; they must be received in a reassuring manner when they present themselves," she insisted.

Faced with the increase in rape cases, the president of the association also calls on parents to be extra vigilant in protecting their daughters.