In a joint efforts to enhance communication strategies that drive positive social change, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Information and Orientation, organized a capacity-building workshop focused on Social Behaviour Change (SBC) and content creation for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
Speaking during the workshop, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Specialist, Mrs Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole, said the overall goal of this program is to enhance the capacity of CSOs and Community structures in SBC-CE to promote HPV vaccine uptake.
According to her, “a key component of this initiative is to create a community engagement guide that will serve as a tool for local stakeholders to improve awareness, trust and acceptance of HPV vaccines and other Routine Immunization in their respective communities.”
“Strengthen the capacity of CSOs and community structures to implement effective SBC-CE strategies for promoting HPV vaccination and RI.”
“Facilitate a participatory process to co-create a Community Engagement Guide tailored to the local context for promoting HPV vaccines.”
“Foster collaboration between CSOs, healthcare providers and community leaders to address vaccine hesitancy and improve vaccine coverage.”
She emphasized the importance of leveraging communication to influence social norms and behaviours.
Aderonke implored participants to use their expertise and experience to develop content that addresses critical issues such as maternal health, child welfare, and disease prevention, including campaigns on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) awareness.
In his welcome remarks, the Director of Press and Public Relations, Oyo State Ministry of Information and Orientation, Mr Rotimi Babalola, said the capacity building aimed at empowering participants with the skills and tools needed to create impactful content that fosters behavioural change, particularly in health-related issues.
According to him, “this workshop is part of a broader initiative to address social and health challenges affecting women, children, and vulnerable populations.”
“It brings together key stakeholders from civil society, media, and government to co-create strategies and content that can effectively engage communities and promote healthier behaviours.”
“Content creators play a vital role in fostering awareness and inspiring action within communities,” he said.
Babalola added that “the power to influence social behaviour through effective communication lies in the synergy between all stakeholders.”
He urged participants to leverage their professional expertise and real-world experiences during the workshop.
The workshop, with over 40 participants across some states in the southwest, features interactive sessions on content development, digital media strategies, and community engagement, equipping participants with practical skills to amplify their impact in promoting Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC).
