Some 60 youngsters were recently awarded certificates as peer educators at a colourful ceremony held at Seven Seas in Kololo. The lot are part of the Reach A Hand Uganda (Rahu) Peer Educators’ Academy.
Rahu is a youth-led non-profit organisation focused on youth empowerment with an emphasis on sexual reproductive health and rights, HIV/Aids awareness and prevention.
Gilbert Beyamba, the chief of party at Rahu, explained that the programme included a one-month training in key areas, including importance of peer education, changing high-risk behaviours, listening, responding, referral and intervention skills, inclusivity, programming and presentation skills, self-care, and group development.
“The Peer education course benefits not only the young people enrolled, but the students in the different schools they will be placed in. By sharing this learning with others, they’re helping create a healthier, more informed community.” Humphrey Nabimanya, executive director, Rahu observed.
But the fun was not lost on more serious issues. Young people entertained each other with poem recitals, news bulletins and songs, which had underlying messages about safe sex and related issues. In the house were Irene Ntale, Lydia Jazmine, Maurice Hassa and Ray Signature who performed for the lively and responsive young crowd.