Bukola Afeni
The Center for Integrated Health Programs (CIHP) has reiterated its commitment to leveraging technology and other innovative approaches to empower vulnerable adolescent girls and young women in Nigeria.
The Chief Executive Officer of CIHP, Dr. Bolanle Oyeledun, stated this at the 4th Scientific Roundtable series in Abuja.
She said the organization has set up a “STEM Hub” to empower young women in society.
According to her, “STEM HUB” is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and provides an opportunity for young girls to become financially literate.
“We want to empower young adolescents and women to be interested in science and technology and also empower them for the future,” she said.
Dr. Oyeledun also noted that the organization has launched its “COOL GIRLS ACT” program, aimed at empowering girls to know about self-esteem.
“We also train them about public speaking, dealing with other people, relationships, psychology, and how they can address mental health issues.”
According to her, CIHP has also started the Business Incubation Hub, where young people can learn skills to improve their economic life and life skills to deal with life’s challenges.
In the same vein, she highlighted that the health body is empowering young adolescents and adults in terms of their sexual and reproductive health and rights. “We have interventions on HIV, AIDS, and Sexually Transmitted Infections. We also have young people with multiple vulnerabilities that are intersecting, and there are issues affecting them. We provide support and empowerment to them,” she said.
The Deputy Director, Community Prevention and Care Services, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Chukwugozie Ujam, emphasized the need for stakeholders to work together and educate young people by providing safe spaces for them to express themselves. “We are making sure that our communities are empowered and know where to go if they fail or are under life-threatening situations. We are ensuring that they have safe spaces where they can report life-threatening issues,” he said.
Ujam also encouraged young adolescents to end the culture of silence and speak up whenever they are being maltreated.
A Peer Educator with STEM Hub Empowerment (SHE), Happiness Mathias, shared her testimonial on how CIHP has empowered her with digital skills and boosted her self-confidence.
‘I have been equipped with digital skills and also learned different skills, such as public speaking and content creation, which has given me an edge in life.
“CIHP has given me moral support and encouragement. They accommodated me and brought out the best in me.”
She urged other young adults and adolescents who lack parental love and attention not to give up on themselves.
