Grooming Responsible Adolescents in the Times of AIDS (RATA): A Comprehensive Health Promotion Workshop for Young-Dependants of Oil and Gas Workers in Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Recent reports indicate that there is increasing rate of sexual intercourse amongst Nigerian Adolescents. They are poorly informed about reproductive health and their main sources of information on such intimate subjects are peer groups, or schoolmates with the media contributing moderately and Parents playing the least role. This scenario is expected to be worse with Field-Based Oil Workers who are highly mobile, spending long time away from home, have poor access to health information and hence impact no sexuality education on their young dependants. Using Key Informant Interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD), 200 dependants of Oil & Gas Employees of Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) between 14 -24yrs of age in Warri Nigeria, were studied to assess their social and reproductive health perceptions. The Medical Unit of CNL organized a youth-friendly comprehensive reproductive-health promotion workshop for these randomly selected youths nominated by their parents with the theme-"Responsible Adolescents in the Times of AIDS" [RATA]. This Enter-education consists of lectures (on HIV/AIDS, Drug Abuse, etc), Film Shows, Quiz, Dance drama, etc. with the youths participating. Souvenirs were also distributed to sustain knowledge gained and promote Peer education. The study revealed poorly informed youths with poor risk perception and high rate of Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The post workshop FGD revealed more informed youths that were ready to take decisions that will protect them from health hazards, practice safe sex and become role models to other youths in their community. Though RATA is a pilot project, the benefits of the workshop cannot be overemphasized. The participatory approach by the youths enhanced their positive response to the consequences of STDs, unwanted pregnancies, drug abuse and violence. In the near future, a modified form of this program will be extended to parents, guardian and teachers in this community to enhance its success.