On the 17th of July, 2023, Kids & Teens Resource Centre organized a successful HIV/AIDS sensitization program at the Ise/Emure NYSC orientation camp. With the objective of educating and creating awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention, the program reached a total of 1600 corps members.
The program was designed to break the stigma around HIV/AIDS and promote safe practices, as well as encourage voluntary testing for the virus. In order to achieve maximum outreach, both male and female participation were equally encouraged. The balanced participation of genders is an indication of the program’s success in involving both male and female corps members.
As a result of the sensitization program, 111 corps members voluntarily stepped forward to participate in CPET. The even distribution of volunteers, with 55 males and 56 females, is a testament to the effectiveness of the sensitization program.
Lectures covering the current situation analysis in Nigeria, issues of adolescents and young people, modes of transmission, risk reduction strategies, condom messaging, and the importance of regular testing were conducted. These lectures were designed to provide accurate information and dispel common myths and misconceptions surrounding the virus.
The program achieved its objectives of raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and its prevention. By empowering the corps members with accurate information, the program hoped to reduce the incidence of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, and foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with the virus and related infections.
Overall, the sensitization program conducted by K&TRC was an outstanding success, with 1600 corps members reached of which 111 volunteers; 55 males, 56 females stepped forward as CPETs. By leveraging the power of education, the program helped to empower the corps members to become informed decision-makers and informed advocates for reproductive health.
