AEGiS-14IAC: Integrated youth development approach: strategy for reduction of women's vulnerability in Nigeria.

14th International AIDS Conference

Barcelona, Spain - July 7-12, 2002

Integrated youth development approach: strategy for reduction of women's vulnerability in Nigeria.

Int Conf AIDS 2002 Jul 7-12; 14:(abstract no. MoOrE1026)

Olatidoye F, Baruwa O, Olasusi O, Odutolu B, Odutolu O
life vanguards, Osogbo, Nigeria

ISSUE: Globally, more than 30% of people already infected are between 15 and 24 years and more 50-60% of new infections are found in the group. Young women are particularly at risk due in most cases to the reality of their economic condition which makes them dependent economically on their male counterparts. The condition is worsened by lack of access to RH information and gender stereotyping. Description- This paper documents the multiplier effect of adopting an integrated approach to empower young women, through various skills development as well as provide economic empowerment. The goal of the project was to promote positive sexual behavior and improve the life options of youths in Osun State in two years. The strategy adopted included Development of a training manual. Cascade training in reproductive health information and entrepreneurial education for young girls aged 15-24 in apprenticeship training. Micro-enterprise support for trained youths that write viable business plans. IEC/BCC materials development and distribution. Training was provided for about 1,000 girls. The girls served as peer educators to their colleagues on issues relating to RH including HIV/AIDS. Some were given small loans to establish as hairdressing, fashion designing, and petty trading.

ISSUES: Empowering young people helped to enhance their sense of self worth and increased ability to take informed decision Increased sense of self worth improved their leadership skill and contribution to community development. Young people with necessary skills and financial assistance are able to start and run their businesses Economic independence helped to reduce vulnerability to STDS including HIV/AIDS

RECOMMENDATIONS: Since poverty is a powerful determining factor in the vulnerability of young people to HIV infection in Africa, there is the need for governments and the organized private sector to promote young peoples empowerment.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, HIV Infections, Human Development, Sex Behavior, Sex Education, Health Education, HIV Seropositivity, Adolescent Health Services, Self Concept, Adolescent Psychology, Goals, Nigeria, Africa, Adolescent, Adult, Human, Female, Male, Education

020707
MoOrE1026