ACTED’s awareness campaign on reproductive health and rights and gender-based violence conducted in the spring has blossomed into a thriving network of enthusiastic students, trained as peer educators, and committed to continue spreading the message in their university and community.

The awareness campaign on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and Gender Based Violence (GBV) conducted by ACTED from February to April 2012 has aroused interest in Jordanian youth. Among the 600 students from 8 universities participating in awareness sessions in the spring, 60 pro-active students were given the opportunity to take part in intensive trainings to become Peer Educators and pass on their knowledge to their peers and community.

During 3 sessions of 3-day trainings held in June, the groups of about 20 students from different universities learned more about health education, SRHR and GBV issues, in order to convey this information to their peers. The students were happy to discuss sensitive topics such as sexuality, HIV/AIDS, family planning, GBV and other key SRHR issues, and to share their opinions and values without fear of judgment. The training also aimed at improving the students’ communication skills and self-confidence, after a short workshop on public speaking techniques. “It gave us the opportunity to talk about subjects that we usually don’t mention a lot,” said Ola, one of the students.

Another student, Raj’a, explained that she really enjoyed the training: “It helped me reflect on myself and on very personal issues. I will be able to pass on this information to my family and friends”. The enthusiasm and energy of the students was palpable and let the trainers assured of their commitment in the long term.

A gathering will be organized in August for all 60 peer educators to meet and strengthen their network, particularly between students from different universities, and to share ideas for their future initiatives. The 60 students will be able to continue informing their peers about SRHR and GBV and ACTED’s SRHR awareness raising campaign will blossom to find acceptance in the Jordanian society, especially among youth.