An initiative under the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) has been introduced in Sabarkantha district, Gujarat, to raise health awareness among adolescents. ‘Yuva Pahel’ quizzes were conducted as part of this initiative, with peer educators actively engaging alongside healthcare teams to spread awareness and encourage healthier lifestyles. The National Adolescent Health Programme has been instrumental in educating teenagers on crucial health issues and promoting positive behavioral practices.
One of the quizzes took place at the Ayushman Arogya Mandir in Pethapur, featuring interactive sessions on yoga, nutrition, and healthy living. Participants showed enthusiasm for the initiative, with Vishwa Parmar expressing how the quiz boosted his confidence and knowledge on health-related topics. Peer educators are being trained through this program to share essential information on nutrition, mental health, reproductive health, de-addiction, and the significance of a healthy lifestyle with their peers.
Yuva Pahel Quizzes have been organized at various health centers and sub-centers in Sabarkantha district, reaching 751 villages to maximize impact. The initiative, overseen by Mehul Pandya, aims to enhance the overall health and development of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years. It focuses on areas such as nutrition enhancement, anemia and malnutrition prevention, mental health support, substance abuse prevention, safety from violence, and the promotion of positive behavior changes.
The National Adolescent Health Programme, initiated on January 7, 2014, emphasizes principles like adolescent participation, equity, gender equality, and partnerships with different sectors. It strives to empower adolescents nationwide to make informed health decisions by providing access to essential information, services, and support through Adolescent Friendly Health Clinics and community interventions.
