Yesterday, the vibrant corridors of academia echoed with discussions that could shape the future of young people’s sexual health in Uganda.
Reproductive Health Uganda, in partnership with the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), hosted the Inter-University Dialogue 2024 at Makerere University, centered around the compelling theme:
“Promoting Young People’s Sexual Health: Leveraging the Digital Space”.
The event brought together students, policymakers, and health practitioners to explore the intersection of technology and sexual health, a crucial dialogue in today’s digital age.
As we delved into the sessions, the excitement in the room was palpable. Young voices, often sidelined in discussions about their own health and rights, were finally given a platform to express their thoughts on technological innovations that could enhance sexual and reproductive health services. The dialogue set the tone for a collaborative approach, urging all stakeholders to take part in essential conversations that could lead to practical, actionable solutions.
Key Takeaways from the Dialogue
1. Amplifying Youth Voices:
The backbone of the dialogue was the commitment to amplify the voices of young people. Participants shared their experiences and challenges related to accessing sexual health information and services through digital platforms. They emphasized that while technology has the potential to improve access, it must be carefully designed to meet the specific needs of young people. A significant call to action emerged: young people must be included at every stage of the development and implementation of digital health interventions.
2. Technological Innovations:
The sessions spotlighted several successful technological innovations that have been implemented in Uganda and beyond. Apps providing sexual health information, telemedicine services that enable consultations with health professionals, and online forums that promote peer support were just a few examples shared. However, discussions also pointed out the challenges, including connectivity issues, digital literacy disparities, and privacy concerns that young people face while seeking sexual health information online.
3. Accountability and Policymaking:
One of the critical parts of the dialogue was holding duty bearers accountable. Participants urged policymakers to prioritize youth-responsive e-health systems, stressing that it is not enough to create digital programs without assessing their effectiveness and inclusivity. The discussions revolved around the need for continuous feedback mechanisms that involve young people in policy creation and evaluation processes.
4. Collaboration Across Sectors:
The dialogue also emphasized the necessity of building strong partnerships among various stakeholders—young people, health providers, researchers, and policymakers. This collaboration is vital for creating a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted aspects of sexual and reproductive health. Attendees exchanged ideas on how to strengthen these partnerships, paving the way for innovative solutions to persistent challenges.
Moving Forward
The Inter-University Dialogue 2024 was more than just a series of discussions; it was a call to action. The insights gained during the event are crucial as we push for inclusive and accessible sexual health services for young people. As we move forward, it is essential that all stakeholders continue to engage with the lessons learned, leveraging technology responsibly and effectively to ensure that young people have the tools, resources, and support they need.
In conclusion, the dialogue not only highlighted the critical role of digital innovations in sexual health but also reignited the commitment to advocate for the rights of young people. As we reflect on the discussions from yesterday, let us remember that the future of sexual and reproductive health lies in our collective hands—especially the hands of the youth who dare to speak, innovate, and lead the change they wish to see.
