HFDI Conducts Health Awareness Outreach On Out of School Girls in Osun
By Abisola Ariwodola,
To impact knowledge about critical health and social issues affecting young girls, Hope for Family Development Initiative, HFDI Nigeria conducted an health awareness program on Out of School Girls in Osun state.
The programme which was part of efforts to empower and support out-of-school youths targeted girls at a learning hub in Osogbo, the state capital.
The O3 project, funded by UNESCO through ARFH, featured the HFDI team, led by Mrs. Falana Adeola, Director of Programs who appreciated the girls for their participation and emphasised the importance of the programme in getting knowledge of vital issues that may affect their well-being.
She stated that the programme which is aimed at raising awarenesses, highlighted the urgency of addressing key challenges such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), early and unwanted pregnancies, gender-based violence (GBV), and child abuse—issues.
Mrs. Falana urged the girls to be mindful of the dangers these challenges pose to both their health and education, and emphasised the need for proactive steps to protect themselves.
Also, the HFDI Program Officer, Alagbile Comfort, spoke about the critical challenges facing the country, including HIV infection, early and unintended pregnancies, GBV, and early child marriage.
Providing clear definitions of HIV and GBV, she advised the girls against sharing sharp objects and engaging in unprotected sex, while stressing the importance of speaking out against any form of violence they may be experienced, and she encouraged the out of school girls to be vigilant and assertive in protecting their rights.
The sensitisation and awareness programme equipped the girls with vital knowledge on health, safety, and their rights.
HFDI, a non-governmental organisation remains committed to supporting out-of-school youth by providing educational programmes that promote their well-being and empowerment.