Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSD) with the support of Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Women Advocates for Vaccine Access, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and IVAC paid a Courtesy Visit to the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency regarding sensitization and mobilization support during the HPV vaccination of eligible girls in the State.
With her were the State Immunization Officer, Director, Disease Control and other stakeholders. We were warmly welcomed and had a fruitful meeting. The process has been seamless and we look forward to an impactful vaccination drive.
Rural sensitization is the bed rock of public health drive. As part of our activities, we engage with community members as critical stakeholders in vaccination uptake. As we commence other activities, it is important to work with community members using a Human Centered Design (HCD) to map out the tailored and targeted strategies to increase vaccination uptake among eligible girls. Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria National Primary Health Care Development Agency Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Women Advocates for Vaccine Access
Earlier today, we were at Choice 97.1 FM to sensitize the general public on HPV, HPV vaccine and cervical cancer. We had a great turn around as listeners called in on the program.
We appreciate the Management of Choice 97.1 FM Nnewi for supporting the sensitization and mobilization drive in Nigeria, particularly in Anambra State. The role of the media in the public health space cannot be overemphasized. Given their roles as critical stakeholders, we urge media houses in Nigeria to lend their voice to counter rumors, myths and misinformation regarding the Vaccine to ensure uptake.
We all have the responsibility to protect our future.
Spread the awareness, and not the rumors. HPV vaccine is safe, effective and free. Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria National Primary Health Care Development Agency Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Women Advocates for Vaccine Access
We are thrilled to present a diverse cross-section of individuals who have stepped up to champion the importance of vaccination. From different backgrounds, professions, and walks of life, they all share one common goal: to promote health and safety through vaccination. Join us in welcoming and celebrating these passionate advocates as they work tirelessly to spread awareness, combat misinformation, and encourage everyone to protect themselves and their communities. Together, we can make a difference and build a healthier future for all! Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria National Primary Health Care Development Agency Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Women Advocates for Vaccine Access
The moment a religious leader stopped by to appreciate the selected vaccine champions. He likened their roles to evangelism where the goal is to save lives (souls). He urged them to put in their best as they go into their commuties to enlighten their people towards the HPV vaccine uptake.
Religious leaders are critical in this drive. Being influential with a high degree of deference from the people, it is essential to leverage their position to reach the people We call on all religious leaders to support the sensitization and mobilization using their platforms and pulpits. Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance Women Advocates for Vaccine Access
Our team was also part of the State team and Partners that paid an advocacy visit to the Ministry of Education in view of the HPV uptake. It was indeed a huge success.
We also had the opportunity to meet with the Officer-in-Charge of Nnewi North Education Authority, along with the Area Education Officer. Recognizing the significance of their positions within the educational system, they wholeheartedly pledged their full support from the Education Board at the Local Government level, which serves as the primary conduit to schools. Their assurance bolsters our efforts in enhancing engagement, conducting sensitizations, mobilizing communities, and facilitating the uptake of the HPV Vaccine.
In furtherance of our campaign for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine sensitization, mobilization, and uptake, our team conducted an advocacy visit to the Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area. The visit aimed to garner support, facilitate the smooth execution of our campaign activities within the community and ensure a coordinated effort towards the successful implementation of the HPV Vaccination among eligible girls.
Accompanied by key personnel including the Director of Primary Health Care, the Local Immunization Officer, the Social Mobilization Officer, and the Disease Surveillance Officer, our delegation was graciously received by the Executive Chairman. The meeting commenced with a formal introduction of our team and an overview of the objectives of our advocacy visit.
The Executive Chairman demonstrated a keen interest in our cause and attentively listened to our presentation. He acknowledged the significance of HPV awareness and its impact on public health within the local government area and the nation. Moreover, he assured us of his unwavering support and commitment to facilitating our campaign activities, ensuring seamless coordination, and maximizing outcomes.
This advocacy visit to the Executive Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area yielded positive outcomes, with an affirmation of support and collaboration towards our HPV sensitization and mobilization efforts. We look forward to leveraging this endorsement to further advance our mission and positively impact the health and well-being of the community.
Recognizing the critical need to increase HPV vaccination rates, we implemented a comprehensive strategy by training our Settlement Vaccine Champions to immerse themselves within their communities. Equipped with specialized knowledge and resources, these champions are tasked with spearheading initiatives to amplify awareness and understanding of the HPV vaccine.
Their roles encompass multifaceted engagement, including community, religious and school-based advocacy and outreaches, as well as facilitating one-on-one discussions with community members. By establishing a presence within the communities, they foster trust, address concerns, and debunk myths surrounding the vaccine.
The expected outcomes of this concerted effort are manifold. Firstly, we anticipate a significant increase in HPV vaccination uptake among the settlement population. Secondly, by fostering a culture of health literacy and proactive healthcare-seeking behaviors, we aim to reduce the prevalence of HPV-related diseases such as cervical cancer. Ultimately, our goal is to create a lasting impact on public health outcomes by empowering communities with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves against HPV infections.
More teams of Settlement Vaccine Champions will be trained to ensure spread across the different wards within the State.
Today, we successfully sensitized 52 boys and 150 girls in Secondary School as well as 25 boys and 37 girls in upper primary school about the HPV, the significance of the HPV vaccine, and the risks associated with cervical cancer. These enthusiastic youngsters were not only eager to learn but also actively engaged in discussions, asking insightful questions and showing genuine interest in safeguarding their health. As they absorbed the information, their enthusiasm grew, and they left equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their own health and well-being, empowered to spread awareness within their communities, and willingness to take the HPV Vaccine.
Following the announcement published on the website of the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) on the winners of the 2023/2024 CODESRIA’s Meaning-making Research Initiatives (MRI) competition, four DIADERC team members, led by Dr. Judith I. Ani, Programmes and Partnership Lead, participated in the prestigious CODESRIA Meaning-making Research Initiatives (MRI) Methodology and Scholarly Writing Workshop held at Le Ndiambour Hotel, Dakar, Senegal, from 16-20 September 2024.
Their proposal, “Climate Change-Induced Flooding: Implications for Income and Food Security among Female Smallholder Farmers in Nigeria”, was one of 14 proposals selected from 116 submissions. This significant achievement reflects the team’s dedication to addressing the intersection of gender and climate change, with a specific focus on how climate-induced flooding disproportionately affects the livelihoods of female smallholder farmers. The research aims to provide practical, policy-relevant recommendations to enhance climate resilience among these vulnerable groups.
The workshop provided valuable opportunities to enhance their research methodologies, writing skills, and project design, ensuring the robustness of the proposals and alignment with CODESRIA’s thematic priorities. During the workshop, scholars were introduced to the resource persons who will guide their projects through completion. Participants also gained insights into African epistemologies, expanded their research knowledge, and built connections with fellow scholars. Team members also had the opportunity to present (https://x.com/CODESRIA/status/1835686162188439587?t=9-I2YaAU5fc1iOp6qQzzYg&s=08) their proposal to resource persons and fellow scholars.
It is important to highlight the active participation of team members throughout the workshop, where they contributed in various roles and capacities. For instance, Dr. Oluwayemisi K. Adeleke served as a Rapporteur during a group presentation, while Dr. Judith I. Ani took on the role of Rapporteur during a resource-person presentation. Additionally, Dr. Ani was part of a roundtable discussion with laureates on the theme “Rethinking African Scholarship in Complex Times: Possibilities and Challenges.” Their involvement showcased their commitment and added significant value to the workshop.
Beyond the in-class activities, members had the pleasure of exploring the beautiful city of Dakar renowned for several tourists’ attractions. In other words, the workshop was not just an academic pursuit; it also offered a chance to explore Dakar’s rich culture. The DIaDeRC team visited the Museum of Black Civilisations (Musée des civilisations noires), recognized by Time magazine as one of the “World’s 100 Greatest Places of 2019.” This museum beautifully encapsulates Africa’s rich history, science, antiquities and heritage, and its exhibits connect the past and present of Black people across the globe.
A visit to the iconic African Renaissance Monument (Monument de la Renaissance Africaine), further underscored the resilience and strength of African people. The 52-meter (171 ft)-tall bronze statue, located on top of one of the twin hills known as Collines des Mamelle, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, serves as a symbol of hope and a reminder of the sacrifices made by African heroes. An inscription at the foot of the statue enjoins tourists to think about the resilience of the people whose sacrifice brought about the African Renaissance. As the team climbed the 180 stairs to the monument, they reflected on the importance of resilience—a value that aligns with their research efforts aimed at contributing to Africa’s development.
It is often said that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Thus, in addition to the cultural experiences, the team enjoyed a relaxing day at Dakar’s scenic beach, where they found time to unwind and take in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, they admired the beautiful sea, listened to the rustling of the waves and heard the sound of the waters that chimmed its consonance with their scholarly sojourn in Dakar. It was such a refreshing time spent at the Dakar beach.
They capped off their trip with a memorable dinner at Restaurant Phare des Mamelles, known for its rich history and live music performances, fostering camaraderie among workshop participants. This Restaurant lies on an iconic altitude of 153m and offers rich experience of the iconic Lighthouse and aerial view of the Atlantic ocean and surrounding environs.
This journey marked a significant milestone for the DIaDeRC team and exemplifies the power of collaboration, networking and passion for societal development. We are excited to welcome the team back and look forward to seeing the impact of their research on female smallholder farmers in Nigeria.
Keep flying the flag high, DIaDeRC! Your work is inspiring and vital to Africa’s future!
Below, team members share their personal experiences at the workshop:
Judith I. Ani:
The workshop offered me rich insights into African epistemology and the need to do Afri-centric projects/research, using methodologies that are well suited in time and space, and most relevant to the African continent and people. It also enabled me to network and forge new collaborations with other participants. I also had the opportunity to explore the rich culture of Dakar.
Loveth Ode-Omeka:
First and foremost, I thank God for the opportunity to be part of this award-winning team. God made it possible, and to Him be the glory! The MRI workshop was an eye opener to all that we are being taught on the ASMN series. The grant proposal was a collaboration with members of the team I met in DIADERC. (My new found sisters). The workshop gave me opportunity to improve my knowledge in research writing and research methodology especially the discussion on mixed method approach. I also had the opportunity to network with other researchers and learn more about research critiques. Presentations of the various MRI proposal exposed us to better insight about our work , and will be applied judiciously for a better proposal submission. I had the privilege of participating in viable discussions about Africa and learning from other scholars. The travel exposure to a Francophone West African country gave me a better view of how I see Africa. I intend to apply knowledge gained to my research work, especially my Ph. D work. and to also impact same to my students. Thank you DIADERC for linking us to this life transforming opportunity. Thank DIADERC Chair.
Brendaline B. Ngwengeh:
My experience in the MRI- Methodology and Scholarly Writing Workshop organized by CODESRIA was very refreshing and enriching. During the workshop, various presentations were made. In the course of it, I learnt the difference between methodology and methods, how to coin a good Research Design. On the Historical part I learnt, colonialism and coloniality and how it still exists today in Africa, Youths and Politics in Africa as well as the Role of Youths in Africa’s Development. At the end we were encouraged to engage on how scholars can incorporate AI in their scholarly writings since it is the current trend and is already shaping research works especially in advanced countries. Resource persons were distributed to each group to discuss and improve on the quality of the works. It was an engaging moment. We also visited Tourist and Historical Sites like the National Museum in Senegal during which facilitators enlightened us on the Historical significance of some of the artifacts displayed. It was a 5-day workshop after which we left happily to our various countries with the aim of effecting the corrections on what has been taught, learnt and discussed. I deeply appreciate the experience and my team members for the love and unity showed during the seminar. All Glory to God Almighty!
Oluwayemisi K. Adeleke:
The workshop provided a rich platform for presentation, discussion and exchange of ideas among presenters, resource persons and organizers. During the workshop, I gained tremendously and had new insights from the different presentations by other researchers selected for the MRI workshop and the resource persons who further helped the progress of the presentations in order to improve the study. Also, I was able to enhance my understanding of social science research methodologies, as well as have further insightful discussion that led to the formation of future collaborations among other African researchers from other African countries. Similarly, several contemporary issues affecting the African continent was discussed as it relates to socioeconomic effect, colonialism and decolonialism, Anthropology, epistemology etc. The executive secretary of CODESRIA and the resource persons further encouraged us to think critically and out of the box in order to have innovative research approaches that will be tailored to the African economy. Also, I learnt about ethical considerations especially when working with marginalized communities. I am excited to have been given the opportunity to participate in the CODESRIA workshop because the experience has been invaluable. It has further reinforced my belief on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to research and the need for ongoing dialogue about Africa’s challenges and opportunities. The exchange of ideas and experiences has inspired me to rethink my own research approach and consider more collaborative and inclusive strategies. The CODESRIA workshop was a significant learning experience for me and I aim to apply the insights gained to my own research and contribute to collaborative efforts within the academic community.
