On August 17, 2024, the Open Space Centre, in collaboration with Vice Versa Initiative Uganda, successfully convened a multistakeholder engagement at Kyambogo University, suitably themed the Intervarsity Lecture on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). This event was a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance SRHR accessibility for Uganda’s youth. It brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), the police, student bodies, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and the media with the focus of exploring actionable strategies for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3): Good Health and Well-Being, with a particular emphasis on making SRHR services more accessible to young people.
As Uganda approaches the 2030 deadline for the SDGs, the country’s youth continue to face significant health challenges. Early pregnancies, increasing exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, and a troubling rise in cases of sexual violence, which was also exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have created substantial barriers to realizing SDG 3. Addressing these challenges is critical to ensuring that every young person in Uganda has access to the health services and information they need.
In response to these pressing issues, civil society organizations like Open Space Centre have been at the forefront of efforts to bridge these gaps. Through the Amplify SDGs project, Open Space Centre has worked tirelessly to ensure that young people are not only aware of SDG 3 but also empowered to take control of their health through intentional partnerships, training, and advocacy spaces in popularizing the SDGs. These efforts are crucial in building a healthier, more informed generation that can drive Uganda towards achieving the global health targets set by the United Nations.
The collaboration with Vice Versa Initiative Uganda during the Intervarsity Lecture underscored the power of collective action in tackling SRHR challenges. By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, the event highlighted the importance of a multi-dimensional approach to addressing these issues. The involvement of the police, for instance, emphasized the need for a robust and supportive legal framework to protect and promote SRHR. Meanwhile, the inclusion of PWDs ensured that the discussions were inclusive and reflective of the diverse needs of all youth groups in Uganda.
Looking ahead, Open Space Centre remains deeply committed to collaborating with like-minded organizations and stakeholders to push for the full realization of SDG 3 in Uganda. Through continuous engagement, innovative training programs, and community-based initiatives, we aim to empower Uganda’s youth with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to lead healthy, productive lives. Together, we can break down the barriers to SRHR accessibility and pave the way for a healthier future for all young Ugandans.