• 04 Nov, 2024
• Tobi Sangotola
• No comment

2024 Social Norms Conference: Transforming Research into Action

Excitement Builds for a Groundbreaking Event

As the 2024 Social Norms Conference approaches, excitement fills the air. Themed From Research to Reality: Sociobehavioral Solutions for Accelerated Human Capital Development,

The two-day event kicks off tomorrow at the Abuja Continental Hotel. It promises to be a unique platform where thought leaders, researchers, practitioners, and advocates come together to discuss transformative strategies addressing social norms, gender issues, and agency aimed at achieving developmental goals.

Exploring the Intersection of Social Norms and Development

This year’s conference will delve into how social norms influence various aspects of development, including women’s agency, climate change, digital innovation, and family dynamics.

Consequently, Attendees can look forward to insightful presentations, practical sessions, and engaging conversations designed to bridge research with actionable strategies for societal change.

Keynote Speaker: Chief Mrs. Moji Makanjuola (MFR)

Chief Mrs Moji Makanjuola, a pioneering figure in health journalism, with over four decades of experience advocating for health communication, gender equality, and social transformation across Nigeria and Africa, her impactful storytelling has significantly influenced public policy on critical issues such as maternal health, gender-based violence, and youth empowerment.

As the former head of the Health Desk at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Chief Mrs. Makanjuola’s work has reached millions, blending journalistic rigor with compassion to inspire action. She co-founded the International Society of Media in Public Health (ISMPH), promoting the use of social media to bridge the gap between health policies and communities.

Her keynote address will provide invaluable insights into the role of family in shaping socio-cultural norms and values across generations, as well as their lasting impact on gender roles, education, career choices, leadership, and community involvement.

OTHER SPEAKERS:

A Diverse Program of Research and Discussions

The conference will feature a wide array of activities aimed at translating sociobehavioral research into actionable solutions for advancing human capital development.

Participants can expect:

Scientific Presentations

A total of 24 scientific presentations will be showcased in oral and poster sessions, focusing on themes such as:

• Empowering women and girls for health and economic participation
• Shifting social norms and promoting gender equity
• Enhancing community health and healthcare access
• Addressing stigma and barriers in health-seeking behavior
• Utilizing social norms to improve reproductive and sexual health

Interactive Panel Sessions

Four dynamic panels are designed to explore sociobehavioral solutions that accelerate human capital development:

1. The Piper and the Paycheck: Economic Empowerment as a Catalyst for Norm Change
2. Birthing Change: Transforming Cultural Norms for Better Reproductive and Maternal Health Outcomes
3. Leading with Purpose: Women’s Agency and the Path to Representation
4. Channels of Change: Weaving Narratives with Spaces, Phrases, Stories, and Voices

Additional Attractions

Beyond the sessions, attendees can enjoy various attractions, including:

• An Art Gallery
• Best Abstract Awards
• Exhibitions
• Video Screenings