Catalogue of Practices

One Stop Centre for Young People


The Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia (FGAE)

Objective
To increase sexual and reproductive knowledge and responsible behavior among youths served by a youth centre and to replicate this program in other youth centres.

Scope
Began in 1990, in Addis Ababa, the youth program now provides education, counseling and clinical services at the main youth centre and to four other outreach centres.

Background
The FGAE established in 1966 is a pioneer in providing FP education and services. Prompted by several research findings in the early 90s which revealed that youth do not have access to proper sexual and reproductive health and information, the FGAE initiated its youth program, addressing the above issues amidst strong cultural taboos about sexuality particularly where young people are concerned.

Main Activities
They are programs designed specially for young people.
In-school programs: Family life education, peer counseling, and distribution of condoms.

Youth centre services: Information; clinical services, individual  and group counseling; recreation facilities; and outreach programs for young people in the community.

Evaluation Findings.
A review of the program undertaken in 1992 showed positive results; more than 100,000 youths have been reached through FGAE activities; the program have been replicated in other parts of the country; youth sexuality has paved the way for further action.

Management Features
Strategy: Realizing the sensitivity of addressing youth sexuality warranted not only a carefully thought-out approach but also involving relevant parties, FGAE made sure that the youth themselves and the other stakeholders get involved at all levels of the programs.

Capacity Building: The staff involved in managing the activities of the youth centres are trained volunteers. FGAE established partnership with the revolutionary Ethiopian Youth Association (REYA), a strategic move to generate support for the program as well as easy access to the same target group. With support from school teachers and peer educators, the FLE classes in schools were formed. And the outreach centres were staffed by local youths.

Mobilizing resources: FGAE mobilizes youth as volunteers for its in and out of school activities. This has saved cost in operating the centre's activities. The Association also convert existing buildings at the locality to serve as the main and outreach points for services. A fee is charged on musical performance, facilities and clinical services.

Managerial Leadership: FGAE created a positive environment for program implementation by establishing partnership with REYA to organize youth activities and include policy makers and other stake holders as advisory committee to oversee the programs. Mobilization of community support and resources for program sustainability has been a key management feature of FGAE.