Tamba Aliyu is an experienced Safeguarding & PSEAH Specialist, with a demonstrated history of working with children, young people and vulnerable adults. Tamba is currently the Chairperson for the National Safeguarding Community of Practice in Sierra Leone and the Global Safeguarding Advisor for Sightsavers.
Tell us about yourself and why you decided to enroll in the Investigator Qualification Training Scheme (IQTS)?
I have been conducting SEAH investigations for years, but before this course, I was a bit nervous about handling SEAH cases. Completing this course has boosted my confidence, as I was able to improve the areas where I was experiencing challenges. For example, my interview techniques were low, and interesting is where I scored the highest in my assessment, 50/50, which showcases my significant improvements in conducting interviews.
I knew I needed support to build my investigation skills and how to effectively utilise the principles of investigation without putting the survivor at further risk of harm, ensuring a survivor-centred approach.
You’ve now completed IQTS tiers 1 – 3. What can learners expect from each course?
IQTS Tier 1
This is an entry-level position that provides the basis of understanding how to conduct a SEAH investigation. It helps me prepare for Tier 2. It builds the capacity of participants with foundational skills in planning, evidence gathering, interviewing, and reporting. It is free [on the DisasterReady platform], and completing Tier 1 will prepare you for Tier 2. I strongly recommend that you start with Tier 1.
IQTS Tier 2
With the foundational experience from Tier 1, IQTS Tier 2 strengthens participants’ knowledge with advanced skills to conduct a survivor-centred investigation into sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH). I learned documentation, effective collaboration and prevention, which equips me to handle more complex cases with accountability and adhere to the principles of investigations.
IQTS Tier 3
During IQTS Tier 3, I was able to understand how to use the principles of Investigation without putting the survivor at further risk of harm. Building rapport with the witnesses, survivors and the alleged perpetrator to gather relevant information as well as strengthen my interview techniques. I got 50/50 in my interview assessment, which means I have mastered interview skills.
The IQTS Tier 3 assessment [which can be purchased after Tier 3] was really rigorous, but worth it. It was a true reflection of how incidents are managed, and the tutor provided guidance throughout the process. This course requires commitment to become a certified investigator, ensuring that all steps are adhered to for successful completion.
What does a survivor-centered approach mean to you?
SEAH Investigation can be conducted safely without putting the witnesses or survivors at further risk of harm, and ensuring a survivor-centred approach.
To me, it does not just mean a process, but it’s a commitment to putting the rights, needs, wishes and dignity of survivors before, during and after the investigation process.
Why would you recommend that all nonprofit and NGO professionals interested in learning more about SEAH investigations to attend an IQTS course?
I’m recommending colleagues from Sierra Leone and across the globe to enrol for this course, as it will strengthen your investigation skills and confidence. I can testify that it has helped me, and this knowledge will help me to conduct effective investigations and provide training to our Designated Safeguarding Leads.
Interested in starting your journey to conducting survivor-centered investigations? Get started with the Investigator Qualification Training Scheme (IQTS) today!
CHS Alliance and partner, Humentum, developed the Investigation Qualification Training Scheme (IQTS) as a three-tiered course, based on the Sexual Exploitation Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) Investigation Guide (2022).
Photo source Sightsavers: Sightsavers Madani at inclusive education project in Bamako Mali