Centre educates 300 students on sexual health

No fewer than 300 students from tertiary institutions in Edo State have benefited from a workshop on Sexuality and Development of a Healthy Lifestyle organised by the Centre for Gender Studies, University of Benin (UNIBEN) to address issues of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and its effects on their victims.

The workshop targeted youth and young adults and brought together participants from Benson Idahosa University, Wellspring University, Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, and others.

Speaking at the event, Director, Centre for Gender Studies, University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof Adefunke Adekunle, said that the workshop is a diverse and integral part of a learning experience. The don said sexuality is not discussed in-depth, resulting in a lack of knowledge and causing persons, especially young adults, to make wrong decisions in life-shaping skills.

On her part, the Director, University of Benin Health Services, Dr Imuwahen Mbarie, said sexually transmitted infections have long-term effects on their victims and advised that people should not live on assumption, but seek medical help whenever they notice any unusual development or substances around their sexual organ.

“Do not try to be your doctor by assuming; always find time to carry out a medical test when you notice anything strange and always see a professional doctor or nearest consultant.”

Earlier, Head, Edo State Rehabilitation and Reintegration Department, and Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Mrs Nkechi Megbuzie, identified self-esteem as one of the powers against rape and advised victims to speak out, while urging parents and guardians to allow their children to talk freely to them on issues related to the lifestyle and health.