The Soshanguve Community Health Centre and local health organisations hosted young people from Memezelo Secondary School for youth month under the theme “Unleash your potential.”
The event provided a wealth of information about society’s health and welfare, which impacts social decisions and activities that contribute to the development of sustainable communities.
Learners were also able to engage with law enforcement agencies and health practitioners about career advice. The event aimed to instill accountability for young people’s actions that affect their everyday behavior.
In an interview with the Gauteng Department of Health, Kekana Manana, a nurse at the Adolescent and Youth Friendly department, stated that the department organised the event to make youth more aware of government services.
“Besides providing them with insight and knowledge, this also educated them about HIV/AIDS, safe sex, sexually transmitted diseases, and other social problems,” said Kekana.
Private healthcare sectors have also empowered youth by distributing free condoms and HIV test kits.
Tshwane Regional Coordinator for HIV/AIDS Response, Thembisile Chauke, said it is the City of Tshwane’s responsibility to raise awareness among youth about social issues such as TB, HIV/AIDS, and other diseases.
“We are giving out materials today that provide information on how youth can prevent HIV or transmit it,” said Chauke.
Setshaba Research Centre’s Community Liaison Officer, Kagiso Mothwa, said that the Centre celebrates Youth Day by sharing information with the community and collaborating with other institutions.
Students have expressed their gratitude for the community’s support of these events that celebrate them.