Thesis (MA) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Communication and Media Studies Department

Includes bibliography (sheets 59-67)

ABSTRACT The prevalence of FGM has gained global attention over the past years, with the need for intervention on the complication of the practice on women. Over the years, media has played a key role in exposing the dangers and creating awareness on FGM. With technological advancement social media plays a crucial part in advocating for the total eradication of the practice in world. Social media campaigns have contributed greatly to combat different social movements all over the globe with FGM included. Campaigning both online and offline enlightens, educate and inform audience about different social, economic, political and cultural issues. The aim of this study is to examine the impact of social media campaigns in combating FGM, also highlight social media impact in exposing the dangers of FGM. It is important to examine youth activism and participation in launching and propelling online campaigns and awareness on FGM as well as analyzing effectiveness of social media campaigns in raising awareness for FGM in Nigeria. Students of the University of Lagos, Lagos state were targeted for this study. A web based survey divided into the following sections was used; Demographic information, FGM information, awareness and attitudes towards FGM, awareness and attitudes towards FGM campaigns and participate in and response to FGM. The study utilized the use of SPSS statistics, reliability analysis, correlation and independent T sample test. The findings of this study reports that social media campaigns has aided in raising awareness of the risks of FGM, with a potential future for online campaigns on FGM with the support of youth engagement, which has aided in raising awareness of the dangers of FGM through youth activism.