Who We Are
The East Africa School Safeguarding Observatory (EASSO) is a youth-led evidence and accountability platform focused on strengthening safeguarding systems in schools across East Africa. We bridge the gap between student experiences and policy responses through rigorous research and youth participation.
Mission
To strengthen safeguarding and child protection systems in schools across East Africa by generating youth-led evidence, amplifying student voices, and supporting evidence-informed policy and practice.
Vision
A future where every child in East Africa can learn in a safe, supportive, and accountable school environment free from abuse, exploitation, violence, and neglect.
Our Core Values
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Evidence-driven
Integrity
Accountability
Collaboration
Integrity
Strategic Objectives
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Research & Evidence
To generate high-quality, youth-informed evidence on safeguarding practices, risks, and protection systems within educational settings across East Africa.
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Student Participation
To ensure that the experiences, perspectives, and recommendations of children and young people are meaningfully integrated into safeguarding discourse.
Policy Influence
Systems Strengthening
To translate evidence into actionable policy recommendations that strengthen safeguarding frameworks within schools and educational institutions.
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Accountability
To promote greater accountability in school safeguarding systems by monitoring trends, identifying gaps, and disseminating evidence on safeguarding performance.
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Capacity Building
To foster a collaborative regional network of educators, child protection practitioners, researchers, youth leaders, civil society organisations, and policymakers.
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Knowledge Mobilisation
To increase understanding of safeguarding challenges and emerging risks affecting children in educational settings through accessible dissemination of research findings.