The AHAPPY ToT for youth, currently underway at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church in Bura-Tana, commenced on April 22, 2025. The five-day training is scheduled to wrap up on April 26, 2025.

At the opening session, the Parish Priest warmly welcomed the AHAPPY facilitator team, led by Fr. Matambura Ismael SJ, the AJAN Director. He encouraged the 45 youth participants to stay attentive and appreciative of the opportunity to acquire new knowledge. The Youth Chaplain, Br. Bernard, also challenged the attendees to remain open to learning and embracing new ideas.

AJAN Liaison Officer, Fernando Nimbu, kicked off the session by providing a comprehensive overview of the AHAPPY program. He took the participants through the journey of the program’s inception, tracing its roots from its initial launch to its current evolution. Fernando shared how the program has adapted and expanded over the years, reaching more communities and impacting more youth. He highlighted the core principles of AHAPPY, which aim to empower young people through training, leadership, and integral development.

The session that followed delved into exploring the five key dimensions of the AHAPPY program. It began with the Spiritual Dimension, highlighting the integration of Christian values, encouraging participants to reflect on their faith and purpose, and fostering a sense of meaning and responsibility as creatures of God and their purpose on earth. Next, the Intellectual Dimension provided essential knowledge about HIV and AIDS prevention, sexually transmitted infections, and responsible decision-making, empowering participants to make informed choices. Physical Dimension, which emphasizes promoting healthy behaviors, such as avoiding risky sexual practices, practicing safe sex, and maintaining regular physical activity. The Emotional Dimension focused on building strong emotional connections, developing healthy coping strategies, and learning to manage stress and challenging emotions. Finally, the Social Dimension emphasized the importance of responsible social behavior, cultivating positive relationships, and promoting a sense of community and belonging among the youth, being a loving neighbor and brother’s keeper.

More to follow>>>