Abstract:
This study investigated the Extensiveness of police gender desk proactive strategies in combating
violence against children in public secondary schools in Hai District, Tanzania. Grounded in the
Theory of Social Disorganization from the 1940s, a mixed methods approach with a convergent
research design was utilized, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data. The target
population included 6 police gender desk officers, 29 ordinary level public secondary schools,
4268 students, and 618 teachers in Hai District. A proportional stratified random sampling
technique was employed to select 102 teachers and 429 students, while total population sampling
was applied to select 9 heads of schools and 6 police gender desk officers, resulting in a total
sample of 546 individual. The data collection instruments were validated by research experts at
MWECAU in the field of education, and a pilot study was conducted in two public secondary
schools. The reliability of the questionnaire for Likert scale items was estimated using Cronbach’s
Alpha coefficients, which were 0.75 for students and 0.80 for teachers. The reliability of qualitative
data was ensured through peer debriefing and triangulation. Data were collected using
questionnaires, interview guides, and document analysis, adhering to ethical considerations
throughout the research process. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data with
SPSS version 22, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study found that
educational programs initiated by the gender desk effectively addressed violence against children.
Teachers and students reported increased awareness and a reduction in violence, while school
administrators observed improved student attitudes and behaviors, creating a safer, more inclusive
environment. Specialized training for gender desk officers enhanced their ability to sensitively
engage with affected children. Positive feedback from teachers, students, and administrators
underscored the success of these initiatives. The study concluded that maintaining and enhancing
these achievements is crucial. Continuous support and development of the programs are essential,
providing a strong foundation for further efforts to create violence-free educational environments.
To sustain and expand the success of these programs, the study recommends ongoing training and
seminars for gender desk officers, strengthened collaboration with stakeholders, and targeted
efforts to reach marginalized students. Continuous research and evaluation are vital for assessing
long-term impact and identifying areas for improvement, ensuring the creation of safe school
environments. |
