UNFPA and Luxembourg partner on sexual and reproductive health education for adolescents in Belize

This training is a component of the 'Leave No One Behind: Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy' 3-year regional project, developed by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Belize and the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg to address the issue of adolescent pregnancy through information and access to services. 

The project employs the Theory of Change model, which is a comprehensive framework that outlines the steps needed to achieve long-term goals. It involves identifying the desired outcomes, mapping out the necessary interventions and tracking the progress through measurable indicators. By using this approach, the project aims to empower young people through education, participation and increased access to sexual and reproductive health information and services.

Recent data from the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) indicated that 10.8% of women 15-19 years of age have already had a birth, 3.9% are pregnant with their first child, 14.7% have begun child bearing and 0.9% have had a live birth before the age of 15. 

In response, the sessions were implemented using the Training of Trainers (ToT) model, which allows selected individuals to be trained to become trainers themselves, enabling them to pass on their knowledge to others. The cascading of this training is expected to equip in- and out-of-school youth with the knowledge and skills to safeguard their health, advocate for their well-being and uphold their dignity.

Marcie Sanchez, a participant from Punta Gorda, shared, “The training sessions were empowering and have increased my knowledge and confidence in addressing sensitive topics. I now feel better equipped to educate young people in my community.”

Twenty-two peer educators from diverse sectors nationwide have now enhanced their ability to deliver such knowledge to both in-school and out-of-school populations, using the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) manual developed by the Belize Family Life Association (BFLA) and UNFPA. 'Leave No One Behind: Reduction of Adolescent Pregnancy' aims to strengthen access to youth-friendly SRH services, increase information on CSE, and enable the participation and empowerment of youths and community leaders.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tisa Grant 
Liaison officer 
United Nations Population Fund 
tgrant@unfpa.org  

Mackeva Westby Neal 
Programme Officer 
United Nations Population Fund 
westby-neal@unfpa.org