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Overview

OCOAF

The Obong Cosmas Okon Akpan Foundation (OCOAF) is a dedicated non-governmental, not-for-profit organization founded in 2021 with an unwavering commitment to promoting the education and well-being of women and girls.

We currently operate in Africa specifically Nigeria. At the core of our mission is the resolute effort to combat and mitigate gender-based violence (GBV), which has long hindered the progress and development of women and girls in our society.Our central goal is to empower women and girls, enabling them to thrive in a world free from the constraints of cultural and social marginalization.

By fostering a nurturing environment, we aim to create a safe haven where women and girls can access quality education, develop valuable life skills, and gain the confidence to participate fully in society. OCOAF is resolutely committed to breaking down the barriers that limit their potential, and we work tirelessly to ensure that every woman and girl we touch has the opportunity to dream big, achieve their goals, and contribute to the betterment of their communities and beyond.
Furthermore, OCOAF recognizes that the empowerment of women and girls is not a solitary endeavor but a collaborative effort.

We firmly believe in forging alliances with like-minded individuals, organizations, and government agencies to create a synergistic approach to addressing the complex challenges faced by women and girls. By engaging in sensitization campaigns, intervention programs, and capacity building initiatives, we seek to foster a holistic and sustainable transformation in communities, promoting gender equality and social justice.

Our foundation aspires to be a catalyst for change, where awareness translates into action, interventions lead to empowerment, and capacity building paves the way for a brighter future. With unwavering commitment and a heart full of compassion, OCOAF endeavors to bring about a society where women and girls can not only escape the shadows of gender-based violence but emerge as confident, informed, and empowered individuals, poised to shape a world that values and respects their rights and potential.

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A Brief History:

The Obong Cosmas Okon Akpan Foundation (OCOAF) was founded in 2021 with the unwavering commitment to support the education and well-being of women and girls, particularly by mitigating gender-based violence (GBV). Since its inception, OCOAF has embarked on a transformative journey, expanding its reach and impact, while remaining dedicated to its mission. Key milestones include the establishment of crucial partnerships, the development of sustainable programs, and the growth of a dedicated team of individuals passionate about effecting positive change in the lives of women and girls.

Mission

Our mission at The Obong Cosmas Okon Akpan Foundation (OCOAF) is to empower women and girls, fostering a world free from gender-based violence and marginalization, through education, economic empowerment, and unyielding advocacy for gender equality.

Vision

We  envision a future where women and girls, unburdened by cultural and social marginalization, flourish in safe, empowered, and inclusive communities, contributing to a society that values their rights and potential.

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OBJECTIVES , THEMATIC AREAS AND OUR APPROACHOCOAF UP CLOSE

Click the titles below to view contents:
  • Objectives.
  • Thematic areas
  • Our Approach
  • Programs & Projects
  • Organizational Structure
  • Promote a Culture of Reading: OCOAF aims to foster a culture of reading among women and girls, providing them with access to educational resources and support to enhance their literacy and knowledge.
  • Mitigate Gender-Based Violence (GBV): OCOAF is dedicated to mitigating all forms of GBV against women and girls by providing support, awareness, and intervention programs to create safer environments.
  • Empower Rural Women Economically: OCOAF strives to empower rural women by providing economic opportunities, vocational training, and financial resources to enhance their financial independence and well-being.
  • Enhance Knowledge of Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH): OCOAF works to ensure that school girls have a good understanding of sexual and reproductive health, empowering them with knowledge to make informed decisions.
  • Promote Girl-Child Education: OCOAF is committed to promoting girl-child education, ensuring that girls have equal access to quality education, reducing the gender gap, and fostering a generation of educated and empowered young women.
  • Gender-Based Violence Prevention/Response
  • Education and Research
  • Health and Reproductive Rights
  • Economic Empowerment and Child Safeguarding

Prevention and Awareness: We emphasize proactive measures to prevent gender-based violence, protect children, and raise awareness about the rights and well-being of women, girls, and all vulnerable groups.

 Empowerment through Education: We believe in the transformative power of education. Our approach includes educational initiatives to empower individuals with knowledge and skills for personal and community development.

Health and Reproductive Rights: We work to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights, ensuring access to essential healthcare services and information.

Economic Empowerment: Economic stability is crucial for breaking the cycle of violence and exploitation. We focus on providing opportunities for economic independence and self-sufficiency.

Research and Evidence-Based Interventions: Our strategies are grounded in research and evidence, enabling us to tailor our programs to the specific needs of the communities we serve.

Partnerships and Collaboration: We collaborate with local and international organizations, governments, and communities to maximize the impact of our initiatives.

Advocacy and Policy Reform: OCOAF actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence policy changes and foster a supportive environment for our thematic areas.

OCOAF is engaged in several comprehensive programs and initiatives, each tailored to address the unique needs of the populations we serve. Our programs encompass:

Training to Curb GBV: OCOAF conducts training sessions to equip school principals and administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to curb gender-based violence in and around schools. The program’s objective is to create a safe learning environment.

Advocacy for Gender Desk Establishment: We advocate for the establishment of gender desks in the Ministry of Education and schools, recognizing the importance of dedicated mechanisms to address gender-related issues.

Child’s Rights Training: OCOAF provides training to school heads and teachers on child’s rights, empowering them to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.

GBV Sensitization and Awareness: In collaboration with the Akwa Ibom State Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Team, OCOAF conducts sensitization and awareness campaigns on GBV prevention and establishes gender clubs in 13 schools in Essien Udim LGA, promoting the safety and well-being of women and girls.

Annual Award Recognition Event: We organize an annual event to recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations who have significantly contributed to curbing GBV in the state. This event serves as a platform to highlight achievements and promote collaboration among stakeholders.

Goals, Target Populations, and Geographical Focus:

Our overarching goal is to empower women and girls, mitigate gender-based violence, and promote gender equality. We primarily target schools and educational institutions in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, focusing on creating safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environments for women and girls.

Impact and Achievements:

OCOAF has achieved notable positive outcomes since its establishment. Through our programs, we’ve witnessed a significant increase in awareness about gender-based violence and child’s rights. We have received testimonials from beneficiaries whose lives have been positively transformed by our initiatives. Furthermore, we have collected valuable statistics and case studies showcasing the effectiveness of our efforts in mitigating GBV and promoting gender equality. These achievements serve as a testament to our commitment to making a lasting impact in the lives of women and girls, and we remain dedicated to our mission of creating a brighter and safer future for them.

Board of Directors/Trustees: The highest governing body responsible for setting the foundation’s mission, policies, and strategic direction. This board is typically comprised of individuals with expertise in areas related to the foundation’s mission.

Executive Director/CEO: The head of the foundation is responsible for overall management and daily operations. The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.

Advisory Board: Comprises experts and advisors in specific fields related to the foundation’s mission who provide guidance and insights to the organization.

Program Directors/Managers: These individuals oversee various programs and initiatives run by the foundation, ensuring that they align with the foundation’s mission and goals.

Finance and Administration: This department manages the financial aspects of the foundation, including budgeting, accounting, and administrative tasks.

Human Resources: Manages recruitment, staff training and development, and overall personnel management.

Communications and Public Relations: Manages the foundation’s communication strategies, public relations, and marketing efforts to raise awareness and support for its mission.

 Grants Fundraising and Partnerships: This department handles grant-making processes, partnerships with other organizations, and collaboration with beneficiaries. They are also responsible for raising funds and cultivating relationships with donors and partners to support the foundation’s activities.

Volunteers: OCOAF relies on the support of volunteers who contribute their time and expertise to advance the foundation’s mission.

Support Staff: Administrative and support personnel, including receptionists, secretaries, and office assistants

Partnerships and Collaborations:

OCOAF is open to collaboration with local and international organizations, government agencies, and institutions. These partnerships have resulted in notable achievements.

Financial Information:

OCOAF maintains a commitment to financial transparency and accountability. Annual budgets and funding sources are regularly audited and made available to the public, ensuring transparency in the use of funds. Funding sources primarily include donations, grants, and sponsorships. Funds are utilized for program development, outreach efforts, administrative costs, and other mission-driven activities.

 Transparency and Accountability:

OCOAF is committed to financial transparency and accountability. The foundation complies with all relevant financial regulations. It also maintains a strict code of conduct and ethics for its staff and volunteers to ensure the responsible use of resources.

Future Plans and Goals:

OCOAF’s plans and goals encompass both short-term and long-term objectives. In the short term, the foundation aims to expand its reach and impact within the communities it serves. Long-term goals include the establishment of sustainable development projects and enhancing the quality of life for those in need.

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Our Values:

  • Love
  • Respect
  • Accountability
  • Value for Human Dignity

Love is at the heart of our organization. We believe in the power of compassion and empathy to drive positive change. We approach our work with a deep sense of care for the women and girls we serve, recognizing that love is a fundamental force for transformation.

Respect forms the cornerstone of our interactions and engagements. We hold in high regard the dignity and rights of every individual, fostering an environment where every person’s voice is heard and their worth acknowledged.

We uphold a strong sense of responsibility for our actions and decisions. We are transparent and answerable for the trust placed in us by our beneficiaries, partners, and supporters. Accountability is key to maintaining the integrity of our work.

We firmly believe in the inherent dignity of every human being. We treat each person with the respect and consideration they deserve, recognizing that upholding human dignity is fundamental to our mission.

OCOAFHeadquarters
to empower women and girls, fostering a world free from gender-based violence and marginalization, through education, economic empowerment, and unyielding advocacy for gender equality.
OUR LOCATIONSWhere to find us
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GET IN TOUCHOCOAF Social links
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OCOAFHeadquarters
OUR LOCATIONSWhere to find us
https://ocoaf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/img-footer-map34.png
GET IN TOUCHOCOAF Social links
Get social with us

Copyright by OCOAF. All rights reserved.

Copyright by OCOAF. All rights reserved.