Ngong Road Children's Foundation

We empower Nairobi children living in poverty to transform their lives through education and support, leading to employment.

Empowering Students through Sexual Reproductive Health Education

Sexual reproductive health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, and social dimensions of human life. It involves the ability to make informed choices regarding one’s sexual activity, access to healthcare and contraception, and the promotion of healthy relationships, ensuring individuals can lead fulfilling and satisfying lives. Understanding and advocating for sexual reproductive health is essential for achieving gender equality, personal autonomy, and overall societal progress.

youth empowerment

At Ngong Road Children’s Foundation, we recently organized a three-day training program for sexual reproductive health aimed at our high school students in forms one, two, and three. Over 70 students attended this program with the primary goal of addressing the rising trends of pregnancies and STI infections, while also providing knowledge on how to navigate crucial life situations.

The training sessions were held within the ELIMU HUB library, creating a safe and conducive environment for open discussions. The students were receptive and enthusiastic about the program. One form three student shared, “SRH has been impactful, and I have learned the importance of abstaining from sexual intercourse. I will surely spread the word to my friends.”

The program was conducted by our Youth Peer Providers (YPP), who covered essential topics such as adolescence, contraceptives, relationships, STIs, and safe sex. Additionally, the students engaged in various icebreakers and demonstrations, making the learning experience interactive and enjoyable.

In today’s rapidly changing world, knowledge and awareness of sexual reproductive health are indispensable. Programs like this not only equip our youth with essential life skills but also contribute to building a healthier and more informed society. We take a significant step towards a more equitable and progressive future by empowering the younger generation to make informed choices and promoting healthy relationships.

Sexual Reproductive Health Training for Youth Peer Providers at NRCF

In a recent training program held at NRCF, a group of enthusiastic young individuals embarked on a journey to become better-equipped Youth Peer Providers (YPPs) in the field of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH). This training was held from the 5th to the 7th of October with an aim to add to the existing knowledge that the Youth Peer Providers have in order for them to deliver SRH education effectively to students in the program. The training was carried out by volunteers from the Enkare Oltau Foundation.

Day 1: Building Foundations

The first day of training commenced with self-introductions, emphasizing the importance of making lasting impressions and effective icebreakers, crucial skills for working with teenagers and peers. The participants openly shared their expectations, with many hoping to increase their knowledge of Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and better manage emerging issues in the field. The day’s agenda covered fundamental topics such as sex, sexuality, sexual reproductive health, personality, identity, self-esteem, sexual orientation, and emerging trends in SRH. The day also delved into gender fluidity, a pressing concern in SRHR, emphasizing understanding and respecting different gender identities and expressions.

Day 2: Deepening Knowledge

Topics covered for the day included love and sex, relationships, components of SRHR, and long-term relationships.

In a group work format, trainees were divided into four groups to discuss and present specific SRHR components, such as STIs, pregnancy, teen pregnancy, abortion, adolescent SRH, and contraception and family planning. The practical highlight of the day was a demonstration of self-testing kits, which was a new learning experience for all participants. This demonstration inspired a request for more kits and discussions on collaborating with Community Health Volunteers or the nearest County Hospital for further training and supplies.

Day 3: Exploring Taboos

The agenda for the day covered sensitive topics, including masturbation, SRH legal policies, SRH for marginalized communities, and mental health management for SRH facilitators.

Masturbation became a focal point of discussion, with the trainees expressing a strong desire for more in-depth knowledge. This day marked the end of the training.

The SRH training provided youth peer providers with valuable insights and skills to become effective facilitators in SRH education. The program empowered these young individuals with the knowledge, sensitivity, and tools they need to address SRH challenges and make a lasting impact. The dedication of both trainers and trainees to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment promises a brighter future for SRHR education and support. Our gratitude goes out to the volunteers at the Enkare Oltau Foundation for taking the time to carry out this refresher training for our Youth Peer Providers.

Sexual Reproductive Health Training Update

While our primary purpose is to provide education, we know that nutrition, good health, and a safe living environment are essential to learning.  To maximize student success, we support the health and well-being of our students by providing regular meals and medical care and support and training programs for Sexual and Reproductive Health, Drug Awareness and Abuse, and Mental Health. 

During the just-concluded school break, we had our high school students taken through Sexual Reproductive Health training at the NRCF offices. The training started on the 25th to the 28th of April at the NRCF offices. This training aimed to equip the students with the essential knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive well-being and it was being facilitated by Youth Peer Providers (YPP) who have undergone training by Parenthood Global. 

Some of the topics covered include:

  • Mental health: Understanding the impact of mental well-being on overall and where and when to seek support when needed
  •  Drug and substance abuse: Recognizing the risks associated with substance abuse and developing skills to resist peer pressure
  • Teenage pregnancy: Exploring the consequences of early pregnancy and fostering awareness about responsible sexual behavior
  • Abortion: Informing students about the legal aspects, health risks, and available support systems surrounding abortion, while emphasizing the importance of making informed decisions
  • STIs: Educating on prevention methods, testing, treatment, and reducing stigma
  • Menstrual hygiene: Understanding and destigmatization of menstruation, while providing practical guidance on menstrual hygiene management
  • Contraceptives: Introducing various contraceptive methods, their effectiveness and ensuring the students understand their rights and choices regarding contraception
  • Consent: Discussing the significance of consent in relationships, emphasizing mutual respect, and promoting healthy communication

The SRH training proved to be highly beneficial as relevant topics were addressed and there was provision of a safe space for discussions. Furthermore, the interactions with the Youth Peer Providers allowed the students to receive information from relatable role models who understood their perspectives and concerns. This peer-to-peer approach promoted an open and non-judgemental environment, encouraging the students to actively participate.

Through this initiative, we continue to contribute to the holistic development and well-being of the students and we are more motivated to support such initiatives.