SUPPORT HEALTH NEEDS OF 1000 ADOLESCENTS IN UGANDA

Executive Summary

During this reporting period (July–September 2025), the Support Health Needs of 1,000 Adolescents in Uganda project concentrated on Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and HIV testing and counseling among adolescents.

Through school-based and community outreach activities, the project reached 189 adolescents (105 girls and 84 boys) with health education focused on reproductive health, HIV prevention, and life skills. A total of 48 adolescents voluntarily tested for HIV, and all were found HIV negative, demonstrating positive health behavior and awareness. Additionally, 20 peereducators were trained to support ongoing SRH education in schools and youth clubs. The project also conducted two community dialogues with parents and local leaders, promoting open discussions about adolescent health and reducing stigma around HIV.

These efforts contributed to increased awareness, improved attitudes toward HIV testing, and stronger community engagement in supporting adolescent health.

Key Achievements This Quarter

This quarter, the project made significant progress toward its annual goal of reaching 1,000 adolescents with SRH and HIV services. A total of 189 adolescents were reached through a combination of community and school-based health education sessions, where they gained accurate information on puberty, reproductive health, contraception, and HIV prevention. Out of these, 48 adolescents accessed voluntary HIV testing and counseling services provided by trained health workers, and all tested HIV negative.

The project also strengthened youth leadership by training 5 peer educators, who are now actively facilitating SRH discussions and encouraging HIV testing among their peers. Furthermore, one community dialogue brought together parents, teachers, and local leaders to discuss adolescent health challenges and promote open communication on SRH issues. These achievements demonstrate growing community trust and adolescent participation in health programs.

Impact Highlights

• Improved HIV Awareness: 189 adolescents gained practical knowledge about HIV prevention, care, and safe reproductive health practices.
• Testing and Counseling Success: 48 adolescents tested HIV negative and received counseling to maintain healthy behaviors.
• Peer Engagement: 5 trained peer educators are driving adolescent health advocacy in their schools and communities.
• Community Support: Parents and leaders are becoming more open to discussing SRH, helping to reduce stigma and misinformation.

Beneficiary Testimony:
“I used to be scared to go for an HIV test, but after the health talk, I understood why it’s important. I feel proud to know my status and encourage my friends to do the same.”
— Sarah, 17 years old,

Lessons Learned

• Combining HIV testing with SRH education increases adolescent participation and reduces stigma.
• Peer educators are highly effective in influencing adolescent behavior and increasing program reach.
• Early engagement of parents, teachers, and leaders promotes acceptance and long-term sustainability of adolescent health initiatives.

Conclusion

The July–September 2025 quarter marked steady progress in promoting adolescent health through education, HIV testing, and community engagement. The project’s success in reaching 189 adolescents and recording 100% HIV-negative results reflects the growing impact of early awareness and preventive interventions.

Adolescents demonstrated enthusiasm, confidence, and openness toward discussing reproductive health and getting tested—an encouraging sign for the future of HIV prevention in Uganda. The partnerships with schools, local leaders, and peer educators have created a supportive network that can sustain impact beyond the project’s lifespan.