Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Training Empowers Pupils in Embeva Village - Copy - Copy

A two-day Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health (ASRH) training organized by the Selfless Compassion Initiative (SCI) has left a lasting impact on schoolchildren in Embeva Village, Arua District. 

Held from August 6–7, 2024, the event aimed to equip in-school adolescents with critical knowledge and skills on sexual health, enabling them to make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of adolescence safely.

The training, which took place at Embeva Primary School, brought together students, educators, and community leaders, addressing sensitive topics often overlooked in traditional curriculums. These included puberty, consent, healthy relationships, and the prevention of early pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

^{In Picture, The Pupils along with the facilitators During Lunch Break}

The sessions were led by skilled facilitators, including health experts and social workers, who used interactive methods to ensure that the pupils not only listened but participated actively. 

Role plays, group discussions, and question-and-answer sessions were incorporated to make the sessions relatable and engaging.

One of the pupils, Grace, a 14-year-old from Primary Seven, shared her thoughts on the training: 

"Before this, I didn’t fully understand what was happening to my body. Now, I feel more confident about my changes, and I know how to protect myself. I can even help my friends who are confused."

^{In Picture, Participants}

The feedback from the students highlighted a shift in how they perceive their bodies and relationships. Many reported that the training gave them new insights and removed the stigma and fear around discussions on sexuality.

During the closing session, SCI's program manager, Mr. Alex, underscored the importance of equipping adolescents with reproductive health knowledge at a young age. 

"Adolescence is a critical stage where the right guidance can make a lifetime of difference. This training is not just about preventing diseases and pregnancies but empowering the next generation with the right tools to thrive," he said.

The training coordinator, Ms. Oluru Josephine, also emphasized the role of education in shaping healthy communities. 

"We must break the silence around adolescent reproductive health. By giving young people the right information, we are protecting their futures. Today, these children are better prepared to make informed choices that will impact their lives positively."

^{In picture, The training coordinator, Ms. Oluru Josephine}

SCI’s Executive Director, Apio Freda, echoed similar sentiments, noting how vital such initiatives are in rural areas where access to accurate reproductive health information is limited. 

“This is not just about education; it’s about empowerment. We are giving these children the power to protect themselves, plan their futures, and understand that they are in control of their bodies and decisions. It is a crucial part of our mission at SCI to reach out to vulnerable communities and ensure no child is left behind.”

^{Executive Director, Apio Freda}

SCI’s efforts did not end with the training. The organization committed to regular follow-ups, ensuring that the pupils could access guidance from their teachers and community health workers. 

Additionally, SCI has plans to expand this initiative to other villages across the Arua District, fostering a generation of informed and empowered adolescents.

The positive response from the pupils, parents, and school administration has already set the stage for more such impactful programs in the region. With a growing number of young people at risk due to limited information on sexual and reproductive health, SCI’s initiative is a welcome intervention, bridging the knowledge gap and building healthier communities.

In closing remarks, Apio Freda added: “Our hope is that these adolescents will carry the knowledge they’ve gained into their lives and become ambassadors of change in their families and communities. We will continue our work to reach even more young people because they deserve to grow up with dignity, health, and hope for a better future.

”The training marked a significant milestone in SCI’s ongoing efforts to address the gaps in adolescent reproductive health education, leaving a powerful impact on the pupils of Embeva Primary School and setting a foundation for future success.

BY: Communications' Head, SCI