Submission ID 117595
| Issue/Objective | In a rapidly evolving global health landscape, empowering youth with accurate sexual and reproductive health information is critical. In Sierra Leone, Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) faced resistance from religious and traditional leaders, limiting its reach. Initially embedded within seven subjects under "Child and Adolescent Health and Life Skills" (CAHLS), youth advocates, in partnership with civil society organizations, sought to establish CSE as a stand-alone subject to ensure structured, evidence-based education that prepares young people for informed health decisions. |
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| Methodology/Approach | AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Sierra Leone led an innovative, youth-driven advocacy approach, including: Youth Mock Parliament Debate: A platform where young leaders engaged policymakers on the necessity of CSE, resulting in a formal parliamentary recommendation. Policy Dialogue & Stakeholder Engagement: Collaboration with the Ministry of Education, civil society, and youth groups to push for curriculum reform. Community Mobilization: Addressing misconceptions and resistance through media campaigns and grassroots advocacy. |
| Results | Policy Milestone: The Ministry of Education approved CSE as a stand-alone subject while maintaining its integration into existing subjects. Expanded Reach: The pilot project grew from two to seven districts, with ongoing teacher training. Youth Leadership Strengthened: Young advocates played a central role in shaping national education policy. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | This achievement underscores the role of youth as catalysts for policy transformation in global health. In an era where health challenges are increasingly complex, integrating CSE into national education systems is essential for building resilient, informed communities. However, challenges remain in scaling up teacher training, securing funding, and addressing persistent social resistance. Strengthening multi-sectoral partnerships will be key to ensuring the sustainability of this initiative, aligning with global efforts to advance health equity in a changing world. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Diana Tibesigwa AIDS Healthcare Foundation Victor Popoola AIDS Healthcare Foundation |
