Introduction:
In rural intervention areas, a lack of awareness about body autonomy, rights, and comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) posed significant challenges. To address this gap, the Shirir Apna Adhikar Apna program, supported by the Y.P. Foundation, was introduced to educate and empower youth on sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR). This initiative transformed participants into confident, knowledgeable leaders who now advocate for their rights and actively contribute to their communities

The Challenge:

  1. Lack of Awareness:
    • Youth had limited understanding of body autonomy, reproductive health, and their rights.
  2. Hesitation and Lack of Confidence:
    • Participants struggled to speak in group settings and lacked the confidence to address sensitive topics.
  3. Social Taboos:
    • Discussions about contraception, safe abortion, and gender rights were avoided due to societal stigma.

The Solution:
The program employed a multi-pronged approach to address these challenges:

  1. Regular Sessions:
    • Interactive workshops educated youth about reproductive health, family planning, and gender equality.
  2. Skill Development:
    • Focused on enhancing public speaking and leadership abilities.
    • Encouraged active participation in group discussions and community events.
  3. Community Involvement:
    • Organized events to provide a platform for youth to share their knowledge with a larger audience.
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The Transformation:
The program’s intervention led to remarkable changes among the participants:

  1. Youth Leadership Emergence:
    • Confident leaders emerged, addressing sensitive topics such as family planning, safe abortion, and gender equality.
  2. Successful World Population Day Seminar:
    • On July 11, 2021, a seminar titled “Causes and Effects of Population Growth” was held at Johar Ali Khan Inter College, Doharighat, attended by over 70 participants, including adolescents, parents, ASHA workers, panchayat representatives, and village heads.
    • Youth Contributions:
      • Roshni and Samsuresh: Discussed family planning and contraceptive availability.
      • Suman, Mahini, and Mamta: Explained the MTP Act and safe abortion procedures.
      • Kina, Sambhavati, and Kareem: Advocated for comprehensive sexuality education in villages.
      • Priyanka and Neelam: Highlighted health impacts of population growth.
      • Neha and Sampki: Led discussions on domestic violence and child marriage.
      • Hemant and Juhi: Addressed dowry practices.
      • Lucky: Spoke on the effects of population growth on education.
  1. Community Recognition:
    • Village head Shri Sonu Yadav praised the youth for their confidence and knowledge. He pledged support to replicate the program across villages.

Results and Achievements:

  1. Empowered Youth Team:
    • A capable and vocal team of youth leaders emerged, ready to advocate for SRHR and lead community initiatives.
  2. Increased Community Awareness:
    • The program significantly increased knowledge about reproductive health, gender rights, and social issues among youth and families.
  3. Community Support:
    • Inspired by the youth’s efforts, local leaders committed to expanding the program to other villages.

Conclusion:
The Shirir Apna Adhikar Apna program demonstrates the transformative power of education and awareness. By addressing sensitive issues and breaking societal taboos, the program has empowered youth to become proactive leaders and advocates for change. This success story underscores the potential of youth-led initiatives to foster societal progress and create lasting impact.

Acknowledgment:
Special thanks to the Y.P. Foundation and the Shirir Apna Adhikar Apna program for their unwavering support and dedication to empowering adolescents. Their efforts have inspired a new generation of leaders committed to advancing SRHR and community development.