Empowering Youth:
Innovating SRH Information Delivery with Low-Tech Solutions
Bereket A. Haileslassie | September 18, 2024
TaYA, in collaboration with UNESCO, Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE), Enderase Youth Association and UNFPA, recently organized a workshop (from 17-18 September 2024) with the aim of developing innovative digital content to deliver sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information to young people using selected low-tech tools.
Youth representatives from different regions took part in a meaningful way in order to identify and apply youth-friendly, easily accessible, and affordable tools and methodologies. Additionally, these young representatives worked together to co-create engaging, youth-friendly content that is age-and culturally appropriate and resonates with their peers.
Some of the youth participants at the workshop (Bereket A/TaYA, September 2024)
As the drivers and shapers of tomorrow’s world, young people must be empowered with the right skills and knowledge. By equipping youth with accurate, both age and cultural appropriate SRH information, this initiative promises to enable them to make informed decisions, take control of their health, and contribute to their communities positively. This workshop not only strengthens their understanding on SRH but also fosters responsibility and leadership, paving the way for a healthier and more informed generation.
This workshop follows up on a meeting convened by UNESCO on November 21 and 22, 2023, where civil society organizations (CSOs) and young people gathered to discuss how to effectively reach Ethiopian youth with Education for Health and Wellbeing (EHW) information using low-tech digital tools and community-based discussions. The use of Local Content Servers, which provide digital content without requiring internet access, along with radio programs and billboards to further spread SRH information were among the three innovative solutions proposed on that meeting.
Most suggested solutions for African problems are not usually feasible due to insufficient technology and finance. However, this workshop was a platform that showed us that we can break the barriers of backwardness using a low-tech and cost-effective system development approach to innovation. In addition, this workshop has taught us to be resourceful and effective in addressing certain problems.
The highlight of the workshop for me is Debunking Myths: There were many misconceptions discussed, especially around topics like STIs, GBV and sexual and reproductive health. It was refreshing to be able to develop tools that provide proper information for young people from the whole nation in a deep-rooted youth community regarding sexual and reproductive health in Ethiopia. Looking forward to continued meaningful participation.
Looking forward, UNESCO plans to collaborate with different stakeholders to work on the recommendations and ideas proposed by the youth. With the involvement and support of key government stakeholders and the meaningful and inclusive participation of youth, a project will be implemented to deliver age and culturally appropriate health and wellbeing information to youth using low-tech tools.