Young people in Togo are increasingly navigating challenges that affect their physical and mental health, social and spiritual well-being. From making informed decisions about their health to navigating the opportunities and risks of the digital world, they need the knowledge, values and support to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Recognising this need, Centre Espérance Loyola (CEL), one of the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN) Field Centres in Togo, in collaboration with CRM Agoè, marked AJAN Youth Well-being Day on 26 October 2026. The celebration was dedicated to young people’s mental well-being under the theme: “AI & HIV/AIDS: Informed, Protected and Responsible in the Digital Age.”

The initiative sought to promote a holistic understanding of well-being, highlighting the interconnectedness of physical, psychological, social and spiritual health.

The day’s activities began with a Eucharistic celebration attended by nearly 250 young apprentices from different vocational training programmes. In his homily, Fr. Cyprien Sanbena of Don Orione, Diocesan and Regional Youth Coordinator, encouraged the young people to place God at the centre of their lives. He emphasised the importance of inner formation, spiritual values and discernment as essential elements of genuine personal fulfilment.

The celebration provided an opportunity for the young participants to reflect on the importance of nurturing their inner lives alongside their physical and emotional health.

Addressing HIV and navigating the digital world

Following the Eucharistic celebration, an interactive discussion brought together approximately 30 young people to explore two important areas affecting their well-being: HIV/AIDS and artificial intelligence.

The session on HIV/AIDS focused on modes of transmission, prevention, testing, antiretroviral treatment and the importance of combating stigma and discrimination. Participants were encouraged to make informed decisions about their health and to recognise the importance of supporting people living with HIV with dignity and without prejudice.

The discussion also addressed artificial intelligence, examining both its opportunities and potential risks. Particular attention was given to misinformation, digital manipulation, online scams and the protection of personal data. The young people were encouraged to develop critical thinking skills when engaging with information shared on social media and to use digital technologies responsibly.

Through these exchanges, participants gained a better appreciation of their responsibility in safeguarding their health, making informed choices and protecting themselves in an increasingly digital environment.

Young people call for continued accompaniment

Beyond the knowledge shared, the celebration created space for young people to express their experiences, concerns and aspirations. Their reflections highlighted the importance of mental well-being, supportive relationships and access to trusted adults who can offer guidance and accompaniment.

In a video testimony, 16-year-old Ambroise reflected on the importance of mental health in personal development:

“Taking care of one’s mental health is not a weakness but a strength. A young person who feels well and takes care of their mental and physical health is better prepared to learn, pursue initiatives, build their future and contribute to the development of their community and peers.”

Similarly, Catherine, 17, spoke about the importance of having responsible adults who can listen and provide guidance:

“I now feel confident sharing my problems without shame with an adult so that I can receive advice and lasting solutions to safeguard my future. My peers are important to me, but many of them have limited capacity to resolve the problems faced by their fellow young people.”

These testimonies reinforce the importance of creating safe and supportive environments where young people can speak openly about their challenges and receive appropriate guidance.

Sustaining the commitment to youth well-being

The activity recorded encouraging results, with nearly 250 young people participating, including 180 girls and 60 boys, alongside 10 facilitators. According to the reported indicators, 87% of the young participants expressed the need for continued accompaniment and awareness-raising activities from CEL, while 89% demonstrated knowledge of HIV transmission routes following the activity.

The strong interest in continued engagement underscores the need to move beyond one-day celebrations towards sustained education, practical skills development and close accompaniment.

As part of this commitment, CEL has planned a follow-up training session for 9 November 2026. The session will build on the discussions initiated during the celebration, strengthening young people’s capacities in health prevention, self-protection and the responsible use of digital tools.

Through this initiative, CEL, in collaboration with CRM Agoè, continues to contribute to AJAN’s mission of promoting the holistic well-being of young people. By addressing health, mental well-being, spirituality and emerging digital challenges, the initiative seeks to empower young people to become responsible actors in safeguarding their own well-being and bringing positive change to their communities.

Ultimately, investing in young people’s well-being means equipping them not only to face today’s challenges but also to build healthier, more resilient and hope-filled futures.

By, Madam Ornela Emefa PAKOU

Projects Officer & Gender Expert | Child Protection Officer / Coach,

CENTRES SOCIAUX LOYOLA (CSL)-Togo