Confab Highlights Use Of Research, Data On Behavioral Barriers

Experts, policymakers, development professionals and other stakeholders have stressed the importance of research and data in crafting targeted interventions to combat specific social and behavioral barriers.

They made this known yesterday in Abuja at a Social Norms Conference, with the theme “From Research to Reality: Sociobehavioural Solutions for Accelerated Human Capital Development.”

The conference which was organised by the Solina Centre for International Development and Research (SCIDaR) served as a platform for exchanging ideas on best practices aimed at addressing societal norms and behaviors that affect human capital growth.

The conference drew over 200 participants from various sectors critical to social change, including donors, social policy implementing partners, NGOs, research institutes, academic faculties and students as well as stakeholders from various government ministries, including health, education and women affairs.

Delivering her keynote speech, a former president of the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Chief Moji Makanjuola,  highlighted the crucial role families play in shaping socio-cultural norms and values through the generations.

She called for strategies for integrating cultural insights into maternal and reproductive health programmes to address community health challenges.

She also said cross-sector collaboration emerged as vital for effective behavioral change, urging coordinated action.

Participants were encouraged to challenge entrenched gender norms and stereotypes that hinder women’s societal progress and strategies to inspire young girls and empower women into leadership roles were identified.

Winners of the Hackathon/Artkathon/Ideaherthon Challenge were announced. This challenge invited solution-makers and creatives to develop art pieces and innovative digital communication campaigns addressing pressing issues that affect women’s welfare and progress, advocating for policies and public actions that promote women’s advancement.

SCIDaR, the organising body, is a Nigeria-based non-profit dedicated to researching and implementing evidence-based, high-impact health interventions across Africa, continuing its mission to drive meaningful change through research and community involvement.