KOICA Tanzania, in partnership with KOICA Alumni Tanzania (KOAT) and Dodoma regional authorities, on 25^th July 2025 to organized a youth empowerment program focused on reproductive health and life skills.

Targeting hundreds of secondary school students in Dodoma, the initiative aims to equip young people, especially girls, with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to make informed decisions about their health and futures.

Under the theme “Breaking Barriers: Empowering Youth with Life Skills and SRHR,” the program provides a platform for students, educators, health experts, and leaders to engage in open discussions about puberty, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), menstrual hygiene, and positive life choices.

Speaking while officiating the meeting in Dodoma, the Regional Education Officer, Vicent Kayombo, emphasized the urgent need to overcome cultural taboos that have limited open conversations on reproductive health and restricted young people’s access to accurate information and youth-friendly services.

“This initiative goes beyond health; it is about restoring dignity, safety, and giving every child the chance to dream and thrive without fear or stigma,” she said.

Key elements of the program include providing sanitary pads, establishing private changing rooms, and improving access to clean water in schools. The program also involves boys in discussions about reproductive health to foster mutual respect and understanding, while encouraging parents, teachers, and leaders to support youth development comprehensively.

KOICA Tanzania Country Director Manshik Shin reiterated KOICA’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development by investing in youth.

“Investing in young people is investing in the future. Equipping them with knowledge, skills, and confidence builds resilient and inclusive societies,” he stated.

Shin emphasized that access to SRHR education and menstrual health support is a human rights issue requiring coordinated efforts. The session brought together more than 90 students from across Dodoma Region, providing an important platform to address challenges facing young people.

This partnership marks another step forward in KOICA’s mission to promote inclusive growth and ensure that no young person in Tanzania is left behind on the path to a healthier, more equitable future.