The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recently reached out to 5,000 corps members stationed in Ogun State. During a session at the Sagamu orientation camp, officials provided training on reproductive health and HIV prevention as part of the Education for Health and Well-being project. The initiative aims to provide young people with the necessary facts to make sound health choices.
UNESCO consultant Akinpelu Akintayo highlighted that managing reproductive health is a necessity, not an optional activity. He encouraged the participants to prioritize their well-being by staying informed and getting tested regularly. While he acknowledged the contributions of the Ogun State Agency for the Control of AIDS (OGSACA), he urged the local government to increase the availability of testing kits. Akintayo also reminded the audience that an HIV-positive diagnosis is not a death sentence, as consistent medication allows people to lead productive lives.
During a practical demonstration, facilitator Damilola Shodiya explained proper condom usage and emphasized the importance of hygiene. He cautioned that HIV is often invisible, making routine testing essential. He advised the corps members to avoid sharing sharp instruments and to practice consistent protection.
Dr. Kehinde Fatungase, the Executive Secretary of OGSACA, advised future couples to undergo testing before marriage. He noted that even in cases where one or both partners are positive, medical options exist to protect their future children. Ultimately, the experts emphasized that individual responsibility remains the most effective tool in curbing the spread of the virus.
