Prioritise health, wellbeing of young adults, UNIBEN centre tells Nigerians

Over 300 students from various tertiary institutions in Edo State have benefitted from a workshop on Sexuality and the Development of a Healthy Lifestyle, organised by the Centre for Gender Studies, University of Benin (UNIBEN), to address issues affecting young adults in society.

The Centre also raised concerns over the alarming rate of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and their effects on victims, power dynamics and sex, abuse and rape, sexual relationships, and gender reassignment among young adults. The workshop, targeted at youth and young adults, brought together over 300 participants from Benson Idahosa University, Wellspring University, the Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, and others.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Adefunke Adekunle, Director of the Centre for Gender Studies at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), said the workshop was necessary for both adults and young adults because “it is a diverse and integral part of our learning experience.”

The don noted that sexuality is not discussed in-depth, leading to a lack of knowledge and causing people, especially young adults, to make poor decisions regarding life-shaping skills.

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

“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 consult a professional doctor or the nearest consultant,” she said.

Earlier, the Head of the Edo State Rehabilitation and Reintegration Department, Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Mrs. Nkechi Megbuzie, identified self-esteem as a key defence against rape. She also advised victims, whether male or female, to have the boldness to speak out, while urging parents and guardians to allow their children to talk freely about lifestyle and health-related issues.