CSOs Seek Integration Of Reproductive Health Education In Bauchi Schools

A section of civil society organisations (CSOs) working in Sexual and Reproductive Health Education (SRHE) in Bauchi State have canvassed stronger integration of reproductive health education into schools and communities to improve access to accurate information and safeguard the health and well-being of adolescents and young people.

The CSOs also advocated wider use of the SRHE manual in schools as part of efforts to strengthen the delivery of reproductive health education across the state.

The call was made at a roundtable meeting involving CSOs, ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and community leaders, organised by Alheri YS Foundation under its Global Affairs Canada-funded ASPIRE Project, implemented by PLAN International in Bauchi.

At the meeting, a representative of the foundation, Mrs Rachel Farayola, said the participation of the stakeholders demonstrated their commitment to protecting the health, dignity, education and future of adolescent girls, young people and children.

Also, Mustapha Ajanah of FAWOYDI said every child deserves to grow up healthy, informed and in school, stressing that silence and misinformation could undermine their health, wellbeing and future.

Ajanah called on stakeholders to support the integration of reproductive health education in schools and communities, while urging greater collaboration with PLAN International and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) to train teachers, provide appropriate learning materials and engage parents.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the state of adolescent health in Bauchi by the Adolescents Health Desk Officer of the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, Umar Ningi, who highlighted key achievements as well as persistent challenges affecting adolescent health in the state.

Participants also called for greater coordination and synergy among CSOs to strengthen advocacy, avoid duplication of efforts and achieve sustainable improvements in sexual and reproductive health education across Bauchi State.