Know your HIV status – Ogun govt, UNESCO to NYSC members
UNESCO Educates Ogun Corps Members on Sexual and Reproductive Health
SAGAMU, Ogun State — The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has conducted a training session for approximately 5,000 National Youth Service Corps members in Ogun State, focusing on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), HIV, and AIDS. This initiative, part of UNESCO’s Education for Health and Well-being project, took place on Monday at the Ogun NYSC orientation camp.
The program aims to provide young people with essential information to help them make informed health decisions. UNESCO consultant Akinpelu Akintayo emphasized the importance of understanding not only HIV but also broader reproductive health issues. He urged attendees to seek knowledge and take responsibility for their health.
“Reproductive health is a necessity for everyone, and if young people are not properly educated, they may face difficulties,” Akintayo said. He stressed the importance of knowing one’s health status, explaining that greater awareness can lead to longer, healthier lives.
Akintayo commended the Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OGSACA) for its contributions but called for increased governmental support, particularly in providing sufficient HIV test kits. He also highlighted the significance of regular medical check-ups and encouraged communities to support individuals living with HIV.
“Disease does not equate to death,” Akintayo noted, explaining that with consistent medication, those infected can lead healthy lives.
During a practical demonstration, facilitator Damilola Shodiya illustrated proper condom use to prevent infection and unintended pregnancies. He reiterated that HIV is not visibly detectable, underscoring the necessity of prevention to curb the spread of infections.
“HIV testing is available and free at government and some private facilities in Ogun State,” Shodiya said. He encouraged corps members to maintain personal hygiene, avoid sharing sharp objects, and practice safe sex.
In comments directed at future couples, Dr. Kehinde Fatungase, Executive Secretary of OGSACA, advised pre-marital HIV testing. He assured that even individuals who test positive can marry if they consistently use preventative medication to avoid transmission to their children.
Fatungase also expressed concern about the rising number of youth infections, emphasizing the need for robust preventive measures to protect future generations.
In response to inquiries from corps members, he clarified that HIV transmission through oral sex is unlikely unless there are existing injuries in the mouth.
The event aims to empower Nigerian youth with the knowledge to make informed health choices, ultimately promoting better health outcomes in the community.
