By Florence Wanjohi

The Counselling Center hosted its biannual Reproductive Health & Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) week from July 8-11, an initiative organized by the Counseling Center and VCT week committee in partnership with the Gender, Equity and Protection Office. Other partners included DKT East Africa, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) - Kenya, Marie Stopes- Kenya, Family Health Options Kenya (FHOK), and Lady Askari who trained women on self-defense. The aim of the event was to educate and create awareness about HIV & AIDS, sexual and reproductive health related issues. Some of the activities held included breast and cervical cancer screening, HIV testing services, contraceptive counseling and STIs counseling.

One of the highlights of the week was the self-defense training session conducted by Lady Askari. The session taught women how to avoid being easy targets, spot danger early, and respond to dangerous situations, such as being robbed and when to surrender in case one’s life is threatened. The training included video demonstrations of various scenarios and practical exercises on dummies, allowing participants to practice the techniques they had learned.

The VCT week at USIU-Africa culminated in a vibrant talent show to showcase the diverse talents and celebrate the week's achievements. The Head of Counseling, Patrick Obel, officially opened the event and Senior Counselor Adolphine Nyandoro provided a brief recap of the week's activities.

MC Daniel Kamchacha and Senior Counselor Ms. Lydia Winda then took over, guiding the audience through an evening filled with entertainment and education. Twelve participants showcased their talents that included dances, singing, and spoken word performances, to an enthusiastic audience of over 170 students and staff. The diversity of the university's culture was highlighted through performances such as an Indian dance by Shaileja and Bansari, spoken word by Gabriel Soullerin, an interpretive dance by Shiko, and singing by Kelsey Hozheri and Daniel Kamchacha.

An open mic segment allowed members of the audience to volunteer and showcase their talents, adding an element of spontaneity and fun to the event. A dance competition further entertained the crowd, with volunteers stepping up to show their moves.

Marie Stopes conducted an educational segment on various contraception methods, common sexual and reproductive health related issues among the youth and the dangers of risky behavior among emerging adults. The audience then actively participated in a Kahoot game, answering questions about HIV & AIDS facts, PrEP, PEP, with prizes awarded to all the participants to appreciate their effort.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from the VCT week committee chairperson Ms. Florence Wanjohi, who expressed gratitude to all participants and committee members for their contributions to the week's success. The talent show not only provided entertainment but also reinforced the importance of awareness and education on sexual and reproductive health issues, marking a befitting end to a highly impactful VCT week.