Adolescent and youth engagement
School Holiday Programs
Mostly during school days, boys and girls have lots of free time and hence they are likely to be exposed to different forms of exploitation and are limited opportunities to engage them meaningfully. Our Adolescent and Youth Engagement Program is dedicated to empowering young individuals through various initiatives designed to foster personal growth, community involvement, and leadership skills.We recognize the importance of nurturing the potential of adolescents and youth as they navigate through crucial stages of their lives.
We work closely with the church to do our mentorship programs and this has enabled us to reach more than 1000 young people in Teso North Sub County. Our blended mentorship program focuses on
1. Personal Development: We offer workshops and mentorship programs aimed at enhancing self-confidence, communication skills, and emotional resilience.
2. Community Engagement: Through volunteer opportunities and community projects, participants actively contribute to making a positive impact on society.
3. Skill Building: From vocational training to academic support, we provide resources to help youth develop practical skills essential for their future
4. Leadership Opportunities: We encourage leadership development through leadership camps, peer mentoring, and involvement in decision-making processes within the program.
5. Health and Wellness: Promoting physical and mental well-being is integral to our program, with activities focusing on fitness, nutrition, and stress management.
We have so far done three school holiday programs and are looking forward to the August holidays.
School Mentorship Programs
Our school mentorship programs focus on supporting schools in remote areas by facilitating crucial conversations on topics such as age-appropriate Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) information, Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and personal development.We collaborate closely with schools' clubs, such as the guiding and counseling club, to create safe spaces where learners can openly discuss sensitive issues they might hesitate to share with teachers. Utilizing 'Adventures of Fatuma,' a game provided by TICAH, we initiate dialogues on SRHR, fostering an environment where both girls and boys feel empowered to engage.Our approach extends beyond discussion; we guide students in developing strong values that empower them to advocate for themselves and make informed decisions about their bodies, particularly addressing the vulnerabilities faced by girls. Through structured activities, we enhance their decision-making and problem-solving skills, equipping them to navigate challenging situations effectively. We also focus on skills development, empowering students to utilize their talents effectively. In addition to education and empowerment, we provide essential support by supplying sanitary towels to girls, ensuring they can manage their periods without interruption to their education. This comprehensive support not only enhances knowledge and skills but also contributes to improved school attendance and academic performance, fostering a positive and nurturing learning environment for all students involved.We are currently working with 20 schools within Teso North Sub-county and Busia at large.
Key outcomes;
• Increased knowledge and awareness about SRHR
• Improved MHM practices
• Enhanced confidence and self-esteem among girls
• Strengthened decision making and problem solving abilities
