Community service is a fundamental aspect of higher education, focusing on transferring knowledge to improve public welfare. Recently, the Faculty of Medicine (FK) at Universitas Airlangga actively participated in such an initiative.
A team of faculty and alumni from FK UNAIR concentrated on adolescent reproductive health. The initiative, named SAMBA (Bersama Remaja Tuban Bangun Bangsa), targeted teenagers in Tuban Regency. Over 120 high school students from 26 schools in Tuban attended the event on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.
This community service project involved collaboration with the Tuban Regency Health Office, P2KB, and the Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI) Tuban Branch. Led by Dr. Budi Prasetyo, dr., S. OG, Subsp Obginsos, the initiative received positive feedback from all parties involved.
“We hope this activity continues, with the best SAMBA cadres working under the guidance of their school health unit teachers and support from the Tuban Regency Health Office, P2KB,” said Dr. Prasetyo.
Engaging Teens with the GACHA Module
For many, reproductive health remains a taboo subject. However, SAMBA successfully engaged Tuban’s teenagers through an innovative approach using the GACHA module.
“This module contains information on adolescent reproductive health, interactive games, myths and facts, and guidance on when to seek medical advice,” Dr. Prasetyo explained.
The goal is to educate teenagers in a fun and engaging way, raising awareness about the importance of reproductive health and its impact on their futures. The module offers accurate and comprehensive information on reproductive health, including puberty and sexually transmitted infections.
Important Messages for Teens on Reproductive Health
Understanding reproductive health is crucial, especially for teenagers experiencing puberty. Early education on reproduction is essential to prevent diseases related to reproductive organs.
“Take care of your reproductive health as a form of self-respect and ensure you receive accurate information and appropriate health services,” advised Dr. Prasetyo.
He also emphasized the importance of understanding one’s body and avoiding behaviors that could jeopardize reproductive health. This can be achieved by obtaining information from reliable sources and not neglecting regular health check-ups.