As part of its commitment to continuous learning, institutional strengthening, and evidence-based advocacy, PLAN Foundation successfully organised an in-house training and capacity-building session on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Advocacy (SRHRA) value clarification. The training brought together members of staff to deepen their understanding of the principles, values, and professional responsibilities that form the foundation of effective advocacy for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
The session was facilitated by Dr Stella Akinso, a distinguished Public Health Practitioner and expert in Sexual and Reproductive Health, whose wealth of experience and practical knowledge enriched the learning experience. Through engaging presentations, interactive discussions, reflective exercises, and real-life case studies, participants explored the critical role of value clarification in promoting equitable, rights-based, and people-centred health services.
A major focus of the training was value clarification, a process that enables individuals to identify, examine, and understand how their personal beliefs, cultural norms, religious perspectives, and societal influences may shape their attitudes and professional conduct when providing or advocating for sexual and reproductive health services.
Dr. Akinso emphasized that while personal beliefs are valid and should be respected, professionals working within the health and development sectors have a responsibility to ensure that such beliefs do not hinder the delivery of accurate information, quality services, or the protection of the rights and dignity of individuals seeking care. She explained that value clarification is not about changing personal convictions but about fostering self-awareness, professionalism, empathy, and respect for human rights. Participants were encouraged to distinguish between personal opinions and professional responsibilities, particularly when working with vulnerable and marginalised populations.
The facilitator also highlighted the importance of adopting a rights-based approach to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Advocacy. Discussions focused on key human rights principles, including equality, non-discrimination, informed choice, confidentiality, dignity, respect, and accountability. Participants examined how stigma, discrimination, misinformation, harmful social norms, and gender inequalities continue to limit access to essential sexual and reproductive health information and services.
Additional topics explored during the training included gender equality, adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health, reproductive autonomy, informed consent, ethical considerations in advocacy, stigma and discrimination, and the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and non-judgemental environments where individuals can access sexual and reproductive health information and services without fear of discrimination. Through practical exercises, group discussions, and case studies, participants reflected on real-life scenarios, challenged unconscious biases, and strengthened their ability to apply rights-based approaches in their daily work.
The training also provided an opportunity for staff to share experiences, exchange perspectives, and discuss practical strategies for addressing common advocacy challenges within diverse communities. These interactive sessions reinforced the importance of empathy, respectful engagement, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration in advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.
The capacity-building session reaffirmed PLAN Foundation’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the knowledge and skills of its workforce while fostering a culture of continuous professional development. By investing in staff capacity, the Foundation continues to enhance its ability to design and implement impactful programmes that improve the health, rights, and well-being of women, girls, young people, and underserved populations.
As an organisation dedicated to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, PLAN Foundation recognises that effective advocacy begins with informed, reflective, and values-driven professionals. Through initiatives such as this, the Foundation remains steadfast in promoting evidence-based programming, protecting human rights, advancing gender equality, and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all.
The training concluded with a renewed commitment from staff to uphold the principles of professionalism, respect, inclusion, integrity, and accountability in every aspect of their work. Participants left the session better equipped to challenge harmful biases, advocate for evidence-informed policies, and contribute meaningfully to creating healthier, more informed, and empowered communities.
At PLAN Foundation, continuous learning remains central to our mission of advancing health equity, protecting human rights, and ensuring that every individual has access to comprehensive, quality, and rights-based sexual and reproductive health information and services without discrimination.
PLAN Foundation is a member of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care (IAPAC), the World Patients Alliance (WPA), the International AIDS Society (IAS), the Global Network of People Living with HIV (GNP+), the Stop TB Partnership, the International Alliance of Patients’ Organisations (IAPO), the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (IUATLD), the Global Health Council (GHC), as well as various other relevant regional and global networks, movements, and professional associations aligned with its vision of a Nigeria where the individual, family, and community are adequately empowered to protect themselves against poverty, underdevelopment, and the spread of diseases.
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Ifedayo Osemwegie,
Advocacy, Strategic Communication and Media Officer,
PLAN Health Advocacy and Development Foundation (PLAN Foundation)
+2348038320421
ifedayo@planfoundation.org.ng
