Student Health Advocates provide their peers with trusted information in reproductive, sexual, and general health while guiding them through difficult times.

Why we care: Young college women in Palawan are often forced to drop out of school due the alarming number of unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and issues related to alcohol, drugs, depression and peer pressure.

How we’re solving this: Roots of Health recruits and trains Student Health Advocates to be peer resources and promote improved reproductive, sexual and general health on and off campus.

A single mom, an education major, a former male sex worker, the Student Government President, a bisexual student, and a scholarship awardee are huddled in conversation and strategizing. These are our Student Health Advocates, students with real-life experiences, and who have come together because they truly care about health and human rights, and want to serve their fellow students.  Their task is not easy: College students in Palawan have little knowledge of health and there are an alarming number of unplanned pregnancies each year that force girls and young women to drop out of school. There are growing cases of sexually transmitted infections, issues of drug and alcohol abuse, depression, and problems with peer pressure. When these young people are troubled, they don’t know where to turn since schools do not offer reproductive health education, and there are very few other resources on campus.

To address this need for support, Roots of Health recruits and trains Student Health Advocates to be peer resources and promote improved reproductive, sexual and general health on and off campus and assist Roots of Health in seminars and classrooms. Student Health Advocates can reach students easily and are able to share their knowledge and give advice as well as provide referrals to their peers.

We have started this programming in Palawan State University but need your help to continue this program into the new school year. With your help, more young people in Puerto Princesa will have trusted sources of information, and helpful, supportive individuals to help get them through difficult times.

Your donation can help these young people avoid unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, stay in school, and realize brighter futures.