Empowering Learners With Free Sexual and Reproductive Health Support
The University of the Cordilleras – College of Nursing (UC-CON) strengthened its commitment to student health and well-being in 2024 through initiatives that provided the UC student population with free access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information, education, and services. These efforts align with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, particularly Indicator 3.3.4, which highlights the importance of ensuring SRH care and education within higher education institutions.
Two major activities demonstrated UC-CON’s active provision of SRH support for students during the year, benefitting a combined total of over 420 student participants.
The first of these was held on October 15, 2024, when UYAHH organized the seminar “Empowerment Through Options: A Guide to Contraceptives” at the UC Auditorium in collaboration with the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP), Balay Marvi by LoveYourself, and the UC College of Nursing Student Council. The event was attended by approximately 180 UC students, who received free access to SRH information including contraceptive options, family planning, HIV/STI prevention, and safe sexual health practices. After the session, over 150 studentsreceived free condom packs and informational leaflets, promoting responsible and informed reproductive health decision-making.
Additionally, UC-CON supported student access to SRH services through its participation in the FPOP 55th Anniversary Medical Mission on August 16, 2024 at Malcolm Square, Baguio City. Around 240 UC studentsparticipated in or benefitted from the mission’s services, which included SRH counseling, contraceptive information, HIV/STI awareness, and referrals. This initiative allowed students to receive direct, youth-friendly SRH guidance from trained health professionals in a safe and supportive environment.
Collectively, these initiatives provided SRH education and services to more than 420 students in 2024. By offering these programs free of charge, UC-CON ensures that essential SRH resources remain inclusive, accessible, and equitable for all learners, reinforcing its mission to support holistic health and informed decision-making among its student population.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Alignment
| SDG | Indicator | Contribution of UC Student SRH Services |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being | 3.3.4 – Sexual and Reproductive Health Services for Students | Provided 420+ students with free access to SRH education, counseling, and materials through campus-based and community-based initiatives. |
| SDG 4 – Quality Education | 4.7 – Education for Sustainable Development | Delivered SRH education that enhanced health literacy, promoted responsible sexual behavior, and supported student well-being. |
| SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities | 10.2 – Inclusion and Access | Ensured free and equal access to SRH programs, reducing barriers related to cost, stigma, and socioeconomic background. |
| SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals | 17.17 – Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships | Strengthened collaboration with FPOP, Balay Marvi by LoveYourself, and UC-CON Student Council to expand student access to quality SRH services. |
References
University of the Cordilleras – College of Nursing. (2024, October 15). Empowerment Through Options: A Guide to Contraceptives.
https://con.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/10/15/empowerment-through-options-a-guide-to-contraceptives/
University of the Cordilleras – College of Nursing. (2024, August 16). UC-CON participates in the FPOP 55th Anniversary Medical Mission.
https://con.uc-bcf.edu.ph/2024/08/16/uc-college-of-nursing-participates-in-fpop-55th-anniversary-medical-mission/
