The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON), through its various initiatives, has been at the forefront of promoting sexual and reproductive health awareness, with a strong focus on gender equality, HIV prevention, and sexual health education. UC-CON’s outreach programs are pivotal in providing essential health information, empowering individuals, and creating inclusive, supportive environments for addressing sexual and reproductive health issues.
National Women’s Month Health Awareness Campaign (April 2023)
In celebration of National Women’s Month 2023, UC-CON, in collaboration with the UC College of Nursing Student Council (CSC) and the University of the Cordilleras Youth and Adolescents Sexuality and Reproductive Health Hub (UYAHH), organized a comprehensive health awareness campaign. The event, held on April 1, 2023, was centered on the theme “Strengthening Partnerships Towards Achieving Women’s and Gender Equality,” and aimed to empower UC employees and students with vital knowledge about sexual and reproductive health.
The event began with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the UC College of Nursing and the Population Commission (POPCOM) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). This partnership is a significant step towards addressing critical health issues and improving access to reproductive health services. Following the MOA signing, Ms. Cecile A. Basawil from POPCOM delivered a lecture on gender equality, women’s rights, and the need to overcome barriers in accessing health services for women. She stressed the importance of local partnerships and their role in creating equal opportunities for all, particularly in the areas of health and education.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to sexual and reproductive health, particularly HIV awareness. Dr. Jimmy A. Bilod from the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center led an insightful lecture on HIV transmission, prevention, and maternal and child health. His presentation aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge necessary to protect themselves and their communities. The session culminated in free HIV screenings for UC employees and students, providing an invaluable opportunity for participants to understand their health status and gain access to preventive measures.
This campaign exemplifies UC-CON’s and UYAHH’s ongoing commitment to raising awareness, promoting gender equality, and fostering a better understanding of sexual and reproductive health. It provided a platform for open discussions about health rights and encouraged proactive engagement with key health issues, underscoring the university’s role in educating and empowering the community.
HIV Awareness Seminar in La Trinidad (December 2023)
UC-CON’s outreach efforts continued in December 2023 when UYAHH hosted a seminar on HIV awareness in Tawang, La Trinidad, Benguet. This event, held in observance of World AIDS Day, aimed to empower local communities by fostering an environment of openness and understanding around HIV prevention and care. With the theme “EmpowerED: Let Communities Lead in HIV Awareness,” the seminar brought together community members, health advocates, and students to discuss the importance of HIV education and reduce stigma surrounding the virus.
During the seminar, youth advocates shared critical insights into HIV transmission, testing, and treatment. The session emphasized the importance of early testing, prevention strategies, and available treatment options. Participants also engaged in interactive activities that helped dispel common misconceptions about HIV, encouraging conversations that might otherwise be uncomfortable. By creating a safe space for open dialogue, UYAHH and UC-CON worked to break down barriers and create a more inclusive community where people could ask questions, share concerns, and receive accurate, unbiased information.
As part of the seminar, attendees were provided with educational materials that furthered their understanding of HIV and its broader impact on public health. UYAHH’s efforts align with UC-CON’s ongoing mission to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. By bringing the seminar to the community, UC-CON reinforced its commitment to extending its outreach to those who might have limited access to such resources.
A Holistic Approach to Sexual and Reproductive Health Education
Both the National Women’s Month campaign and the HIV awareness seminar underscore UC-CON’s commitment to sexual and reproductive health education as a cornerstone of community empowerment. These initiatives are designed not only to inform but also to create lasting partnerships with local organizations and health providers. By engaging students, faculty, and community members in meaningful health dialogues, UC-CON fosters a more informed and proactive approach to public health.
Through these programs, UC-CON is also addressing the urgent need for better access to sexual and reproductive health services, especially in underserved communities. The HIV screenings, educational lectures, and community-based events are just some of the ways the University is ensuring that critical health information reaches a broad audience.
Moreover, by advocating for gender equality and women’s rights, UC-CON is helping to dismantle long-standing barriers to health care, ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to access the services and education they need to make informed decisions about their bodies and health.
