By Omodele Ibitoye Ejeh
“The various avenues of information dissemination in today’s dynamic world underscore the rapid changes taking place. In my role as the Executive Director of IRISE, an organization dedicated to intergenerational leadership that embraces diverse perspectives and experiences in shaping organizational strategies, I find myself at the forefront of this exciting transformation. It’s a call for my generation to adapt swiftly to the remarkable pace, turning challenges into intriguing opportunities for growth.”
In an age dominated by technological advancement, IRISE (Initiative to Resist Institutional Slavery and Exploitation) stands as a beacon at the forefront of transforming Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education while actively combating gender-based violence. Through harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), IRISE is redefining the landscape of knowledge delivery and empowerment. IRISE recognizes the significance of breaking down barriers to SRHR education, and their programs are leading the way in leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies. By employing personalized learning experiences, tailored to individual needs, IRISE empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to take control of their sexual and reproductive health. The use of AI algorithms ensures that education becomes more engaging and accessible than ever before, adapting to each learner’s pace and preferences.
IRISE SRHR Boot Camp 2023: Join the Journey of Discovery
In its journey of discovery, IRISE invites change-makers and advocates to join forces in harnessing the limitless potential of the IRISE SRHR Boot Camp 2023. This initiative aims to create a brighter future where SRHR education is universally accessible, and gender-based violence becomes a relic of the past. With the support of allies and partners like Global Fund for Women, IRISE envisions a more equitable and empowered world for all.
Teaching young people about puberty and SRHR has historically been a challenging task for adults, especially parents. IRISE, however, has found a groundbreaking solution through the integration of cutting-edge AI technology. The creation of youth-friendly, AI-generated videos on SRHR simplifies crucial topics for young people. Here’s why these videos are a game-changer on SRHR education for young people:
Beyond Education: Combating Gender-Based Violence
IRISE’s commitment extends beyond education to the eradication of gender-based violence. The integration of AI enables the identification of patterns and early warning signs, allowing proactive intervention. Safe spaces, both online and offline, have been created to offer immediate assistance and resources to those in need. IRISE envisions a world where every person, regardless of gender, can live free from violence.
Accessible Knowledge
IRISE’s AI-generated videos distill complex information into simple, easy-to-understand language and visuals. This breakthrough makes it significantly easier for parents to communicate these essential concepts to their children, removing the barriers of fear and discomfort. The impact of this education has been widespread, as IRISE has shared these videos with schools initially. Subsequent survey forms will enable parents or guardians to express and examine how this information has been useful to them and their young ones. Moreover, this invaluable education has been disseminated across school platforms and shared with other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The objective is to foster positive engagement, open and honest conversations around SRHR education, awareness, and empowerment. Importantly, this effort aims to eradicate stigmatization and discrimination against girls, women, and young people, championing their rights to bodily autonomy and informed choices. As IRISE continues to make strides in its work, objectives, achievements, and goals, it beckons society to join hands in creating a world where knowledge is power, and everyone can live free from the shadows of lack of awareness and access to valid Sexual Reproductive Health and rights information and services, and gender-based violence. The journey of discovery has begun, and with IRISE leading the way, positive change is on the horizon.
IRISE SRHR BootCamp 2023: Empowering the Youth, Illuminating the Future
In a groundbreaking initiative to empower young people and foster a society grounded in knowledge and respect, IRISE (Initiative to Resist Institutional Slavery and Exploitation) proudly presents its SRHR BootCamp. The first phase of this program started on September 10, 2023, and concluded on December 10, 2023. This transformative event is set to revolutionize Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education, aligning with the visionary principles outlined by the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission.
Defining SRHR: A Comprehensive Approach
The Guttmacher-Lancet Commission’s definition of SRHR, proposed in 2018, serves as the cornerstone for IRISE’s mission. This comprehensive definition goes beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing sexual health, sexual rights, reproductive health, and reproductive rights. It addresses the profound impact of violence, stigma, and the crucial need for bodily autonomy. Importantly, it provides a framework for addressing the SRHR of neglected groups, including adolescent girls and individuals with disabilities. IRISE recognizes this comprehensive framework as a guiding light for governments, United Nations agencies, civil society, and other stakeholders. With a commitment to designing policies, services, and programs that address all aspects of SRHR effectively and equitably, IRISE strides forward to implement the principles laid out by the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission.
Guttmacher-Lancet Commission: A Pillar of Evidence-Based Action
Established in early 2016, the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights has emerged as a beacon of evidence-based action. The Commission’s agenda boldly addresses key SRHR priorities globally, providing a roadmap for transformative change.
SRHR Education for Youth: A Holistic Approach
IRISE’s SRHR BootCamp 2023 focuses on adolescent girls and young women aged 10 to 24, recognizing the importance of a comprehensive range of health and legal aspects to ensure their well-being and autonomy. This includes four core concepts:
Sexual Rights: Ensuring self-determination in matters related to sexuality, empowering the right to make informed choices about one’s sexual life.
Sexuality Education: Providing accurate information about relationships, puberty, sexual health, consent, and respectful behavior, empowering informed decisions about bodies and relationships.
Access to Sexual Health Services: Emphasizing the importance of quality sexual health services, including guidance on reproductive health, contraception, post-abortion care, STI prevention while respecting privacy and confidentiality.
Right to Pleasure: Recognizing the right to pleasure while underlining the importance of consensual, respectful, and lawful experiences.
In summary, the SRHR education offered by IRISE for young people aged 10 to 24 is designed to ensure they are informed, empowered, and protected in matters related to their sexual and reproductive health and rights, and their rights to their bodies. The BootCamp not only aligns with the principles of the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission but also serves as a testament to IRISE’s commitment to creating a society that respects autonomy and dignity.
Join IRISE on this transformative journey. Together, let’s illuminate the path to a future where comprehensive SRHR education is universally accessible, empowering the youth and fostering a world free from the shadows of misinformation and discrimination.
Benefits of Joining our Community are:
Education: Gain knowledge on various aspects of SRHR, from abstinence, menstrual health, contraception to family planning, in a hub designed to empower informed choices.
Supportive Community: Join a non-judgmental environment where experiences are shared, questions are answered on time.
.Omodele Ibitoye Ejeh is the Executive Director, Initiative to Resist Institutional Slavery and Exploitation (IRISE) and wrote in from Lagos.
