From Awareness to Action? Experimental Evidence on Challenges in Reducing School-Related Gender-Based Violence Through a Multi-Component Program in Zambia

School-related gender-based violence remains widespread in low- and middle-income countries, yet rigorous evidence on effective prevention strategies is limited. This study evaluates the Empowerment Pilot, a multi-component program designed to address school-related gender-based violence in Zambian secondary schools. Employing a mixed- methods approach, the study draws on quantitative data from a cluster randomized controlled trial involving more than 4,467 students across 90 schools, alongside qualitative research. The findings show that violence is prevalent, gendered, and normalized in schools. Although the program increased student discussions about violence, it did not reduce overall levels of violence. Implementation challenges and limited diffusion beyond club participants further limited program impact. The study highlights significant institutional and cultural barriers to reducing school-related gender-based violence and underscores the need for comprehensive, schoolwide strategies that strengthen accountability and address underlying social norms perpetuating violence in resource-constrained contexts