14th International AIDS Conference Barcelona, Spain - July 7-12, 2002

Int Conf AIDS 2002 Jul 7-12; 14:(abstract no. D11096)

Kohn D, Tabac L
IPPF/WHR, New York, United States

DESCRIPTION: The project aims to help youth exercise their sexuality in a gratifying manner, while avoiding the consequences of high-risk behaviors. The project provides youth, community leaders, parents and teachers with sexuality education through a network of neighborhood youth volunteers. Approximately 150 youth are trained as peer educators yearly. These youth live in the neighborhoods where they work with their peers to provide SRH education, counseling and referrals to Profamilia's youth clinic and distribute condoms and spermicides. To stay sustainable, the project works collaboratively with schools, churches, cultural and sports clubs, health centers, pharmacies, neighborhood associations and cooperatives, helping to recruit participants and provide space for activities.

ISSUES: Lessons include that trainings are strengthened by focusing less on the biological, clinical and anatomical components of SRH and more on sexuality and gender. Peer educators must have access to comprehensive reference materials, and require ongoing support and training. Project sustainability can be improved by collaborating with previously established community groups. Sustainability issues must be balanced with concerns related to access.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Youth peer education is an effective strategy for providing youth with information and services related to their sexual and reproductive health.

020707
D11096

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