Achol Tinah
Voices for Health and Development held a focus group discussion at Nkumba University to address the challenges facing young women and girls in higher institutions of learning on Wednesday, 7th May 2025.
Under the theme, “Understanding University Students’ Needs and Challenges,” provided a safe space for students to share their struggles around sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, and mental well-being.
Facilitator Apio Julie created an inclusive environment where students, particularly young women, felt encouraged to open up about their experiences. “This wasn’t a lecture, it was healing,” said Kamaliza Patience, a student who attended the session. “We learned things many of us had no idea about, like post-abortion care. The discussion was so equipping and reassuring. I finally felt heard.”
The dialogue aimed to empower young people with accurate health information and practical support. Students responded to thought-provoking questions, sharing concerns over judgment and misinformation when seeking reproductive health services. Many female participants discussed myths around emergency contraception and the stigma surrounding menstruation.
One student, Sarah, described her personal journey: “For years, I struggled with shame around contraception, but when I attended this session today, I learned not only how to care for myself, but that I deserve to understand my body. It changed everything.”
The event also opened up dialogue on gender-based violence, with several students disclosing experiences of harassment and physical violence. VOICES provided guidance on how and where to seek help, emphasizing the right to protection and dignity.
Mental health emerged as a central concern, with students admitting to internal battles with anxiety, depression, and emotional isolation. Apio Julie’s approach, combining empathy and advice, was widely praised by the students.
As VOICES continues to expand its outreach across Uganda, the organization remains committed to dismantling stigma and ensuring that no girl is left behind. “When the girl child is empowered,” said Apio Julie, “she doesn’t just transform her own life, she becomes a beacon of change for her entire community.”
By creating spaces where girls are heard, seen, equipped, supported, and empowered, VOICES is optimistic that the lives of young women and girls are in a safer haven.
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