Circumcision Program

Introduction

Circumcision is an important cultural and health practice in many communities. However, in school environments, boys who undergo circumcision often face bullying and stigmatization, leading to emotional distress, social exclusion, and in some cases, school dropouts. To address this challenge, our organization proposes the Circumcision Ambassador Program to create a supportive environment for circumcised boys while promoting education on safe circumcision practices.

Background

Circumcision remains a culturally and medically significant rite of passage in the Eastern Cape. However, boys who return from initiation schools often face bullying, stigma, and exclusion in schools. There is a growing need to protect these learners and use their experience to positively influence others. This concept proposes the establishment of a Circumcision Ambassadors Program in junior secondary and high schools.

Program Overview

The Circumcision Ambassador Program will be implemented in junior secondary and high schools. The initiative will identify and train four circumcised boys per school to serve as ambassadors for circumcision. These ambassadors will act as peer educators and protectors, helping to eliminate bullying and promoting safe and informed circumcision practices within the school environment.

Objectives

To prevent bullying and stigma related to circumcision in schools.
To promote a culture of respect and understanding regarding circumcision traditions and choices.
To educate students on the importance of safe circumcision practices.
To create a support system for newly circumcised boys.
To strengthen partnerships between schools, parents, traditional leaders, and health practitioners in promoting safe circumcision.

Target Beneficiaries

Junior Secondary and High School Learners (both circumcised and uncircumcised boys).
School Teachers and Administrators (to help enforce anti-bullying policies).
Traditional and Medical Circumcision Practitioners (to promote safety and awareness).
Parents and Guardians (to support their children through the transition).

Role of Circumcision Ambassadors

Act as peer-support leaders for newly circumcised boys.
Promote anti-bullying behavior and intervene in cases of harassment.
Serve as positive role models demonstrating post-initiation discipline and respect.
Participate in workshops on leadership, psychosocial support, and advocacy.
Collaborate with teachers, School Governing Bodies, and parents.

Program Components & Activities

A. Selection of Ambassadors

Schools will nominate four circumcised boys per school.
Candidates should be well-respected by their peers, confident, and committed to the cause.
A screening process will be conducted to ensure suitability.

B. Training of Ambassadors

Workshops on leadership, peer education, and bullying prevention.
Training on safe circumcision practices and post-care.
Guidance on conflict resolution and emotional support.

C. Implementation in Schools

Ambassadors will act as peer educators and mentors for other boys.
They will monitor and report cases of bullying related to circumcision.
Organize awareness campaigns and discussion forums in schools.

D. Partnership with Stakeholders

Work with school authorities to implement anti-bullying policies.
Engage traditional and medical practitioners to support safe circumcision.
Collaborate with parents and community leaders to encourage participation.

Program Activities (Summary)

Orientation and training workshops for ambassadors.
Monthly reflection and support sessions.
School-wide anti-bullying campaigns.
Community dialogues with traditional leaders and parents.
Monitoring and evaluation through school-based reports.

Selection Criteria

To ensure that the selected four circumcised boys per school can effectively serve as ambassadors, they must meet the following criteria:

1. Personal Eligibility Criteria

Must be circumcised (either traditionally or medically).
Must be a junior secondary or high school student.
Must be mentally and emotionally mature to handle sensitive discussions.

2. Leadership & Character Qualities

Respected by peers, teachers, and the school community.
Demonstrates strong leadership qualities and the ability to influence others positively.
Confidence and good communication skills to advocate against bullying.
A role model in terms of discipline, behavior, and academic performance.
Has a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to the program.

3. Advocacy & Peer Support Abilities

Willing to protect and support peers facing bullying or discrimination.
Able to educate and guide other learners on safe circumcision practices.
Comfortable with public speaking and peer mentorship.
Open-minded and able to mediate conflicts related to circumcision.

4. Commitment to the Program

Must commit to actively participating in awareness campaigns, training, and support.
Willing to report bullying incidents to school authorities.
Must be available for training sessions and periodic evaluations.
Must maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive peer issues.

5. Parental Consent Requirement

Candidates must obtain written consent from their parents or guardians before being officially selected.
Parents/guardians will be briefed on the program’s purpose to ensure support and understanding.
Parents may be invited to orientation meetings to strengthen their involvement.

Selection Process

Nomination: Learners, teachers, and community members can nominate potential candidates.
Screening: Interviews will be conducted by school coordinators to assess candidates’ suitability.
Parental Consent: Shortlisted candidates must submit a signed parental consent form.
Final Selection: The school, in partnership with program coordinators, will finalize the ambassadors.

Expected Outcomes

Reduction in bullying and stigma faced by uncircumcised boys in schools.
Improved peers support networks for newly circumcised learners.
Greater awareness of safe circumcision practices among students.
Stronger relationships between schools, communities, and health practitioners.
Decrease in circumcision-related bullying cases.
Improved psychosocial well-being among newly initiated learners.
Stronger school-community relationships on cultural matters.
Empowered learners who demonstrate leadership and support for peers.

Monitoring & Evaluation

Regular feedback sessions with ambassadors and school administrators.
Reports on bullying incidents and responses taken.
Assessment surveys to measure awareness and impact.
Annual review and refinement of the program.
Monthly feedback reports from ambassadors.
Bi-annual reviews with schools and community stakeholders.
Baseline and follow-up surveys on bullying and peer relationships.

Partners and Stakeholders

Schools: Management and educators for coordination.
Traditional Leaders: Support for culturally aligned practices.
Department of Education: Policy support and integration.
Department of Health: Linkage to medical circumcision education.
Civil Society Organizations: Implementation and training support.

Conclusion

The Circumcision Ambassador Program aims to foster a safe, respectful, and informed school environment regarding circumcision. By empowering student ambassadors, this initiative will reduce bullying, educate learners, and promote safe circumcision practices.

Circumcision Ambassadors Program