Kids & Teens Resource Centre, in conjunction with Marie Stopes Organization, successfully conducted HIV/AIDS and STIs sensitization for Youth Corps members at the NYSC camp, Ikare Akoko area of Ondo State. The sensitization was led by facilitator Adedotun Isreal.
The objectives of the program was to improve knowledge and understanding of HIV prevention. Also, raise awareness about the disease and create supportive communities for people living with AIDS.
Additionally, counseling services were provided to offer support and information on diagnosis, treatment, and how to live and relate to PLWHA.
During the event, Blessing Abioye addressed the corps members on the transmission of HIV/AIDS, emphasizing that it could not be “contacted,” but it could be “contracted.” She reiterated that HIV is a virus that weakens the immune system, progressing to AIDS after the immune system has been subdued, and how it can be transmitted through body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk.
The facilitator, Adedotun Isreal, then took the practical session on proper use of condoms. He also explained the importance of family planning and different forms of contraceptives available to curb further spread of STIs.
Participants were given the opportunity to ask questions. This includes; whether a couple in which one partner was HIV positive and the other negative could still give birth. If couples with one partner having HIV needed to use condoms. How do we easily access testing and counseling services. All these questions were properly answered to help provide the participants with reliable information.
The program was a great success. A total of 1,426 corps members were empowered with accurate and valuable knowledge about their Sexual Reproductive Health. Generally, the sensitization program played a critical role in educating, creating awareness and dispelling myths surrounding HTV and STIs. This in turn, helps in providing a support system for people living with these conditions.
