RBM invests in youth peer education
A PEER education programme which aims to empower young people from local communities was officially launched in Richards Bay last week.
MTV Shuga, which aims to equip youngsters with tools to improve their health and well-being, as well as how to make informed and responsible social choices, is a partnership between Richards Bay Minerals (RBM), MTV Staying Alive Foundation (MTV SAF) and the King Cetshwayo District Department of Health (KCDDoH).
RBM has invested R3.7-million to ensure that the peer educators and their leaders work closely with community structures and the KCDDoH to reach as many young people as possible.
The contribution by RBM will cover, among other things, training of 50 peer educators, peer educator materials and equipment, stipends, and technical support.
Peer educators have been selected to participate in the MTV Shuga training programme which will help prepare them for the months of field work ahead.
‘Sex education, including HIV prevention, is often information-based and addresses the human body as if it were devoid of histories, experiences and feelings.
‘However, sexuality education should also be about our social, emotional, and sexual intelligence and how their development has either been supported, delayed, or harmed,’ said Tshireletso Yvonne Diogo, country manager, MTV SAF.
Youth development a key focus
One of the peer educators, Siphiwe Shobede from KwaMbonambi said she hopes the programme will be able to assist young people with the many challenges they face.
‘I am glad that I was one of those chosen to be a peer educator.
‘For me it’s a sign of confidence and trust in my abilities,’ said Shobede, while Nompilo
Sogwaza from KwaSokhulu said her mission is to encourage young people from rural areas never to doubt themselves.
'Providing positive information will help them avoid making mistakes related to life choices and enable them to succeed.
I am excited to be part of that journey with them,' she said. General manager for communications and community relations at RBM, Bheki Nowele said the investment is a further indication of RBM’s commitment to empowering the youth.
‘I hope that through this programme we are providing the proper tools to help our youth better navigate the challenges they face on a daily basis.
‘We are also optimistic that this programme will help define a path to a brighter future, changing helplessness to motivation and determination,’ said Nowele.