Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation (TMF), in collaboration with Ministry of Education and Sports, Jinja District Local Government with support from UNESCO held a district-level inception meeting to introduce the Health and well-being project aimed at strengthening adolescent health, wellbeing, and education outcomes in schools and communities across the district.
The meeting, held at the Jinja District Headquarters, brought together key stakeholders including district education and health officials, community development officers, head teachers, civil society actors, and representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports. The gathering served as a platform to present the project’s goals, implementation plan, and anticipated impact on adolescents, especially girls, in and out of school.
In her remarks, TMF Head of Programs emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating inclusive, safe, and supportive environments for young people. “This inception meeting is the first step toward building a strong collaborative framework with district stakeholders. Together, we can ensure that every adolescent, regardless of their background, has access to accurate information, life skills, and the support needed to stay in school and thrive,” she said.
TMF Head of Programs Speaking during the orientation meeting.
Representing the Ministry of Education and Sports, Kato Huzaifa underscored the importance of community involvement. “This inception meeting sets the pace for collaborative action. We must work hand-in-hand with parents, teachers, and local leaders to create safe, inclusive, and supportive school environments,” he noted.
The Assistant Chief Administrative Officer of Jinja District commended TMF for initiating a timely and relevant program that aligns with the district’s development priorities. “We are proud to partner with Trailblazers Mentoring Foundation in addressing issues that affect our learners. Improving adolescent health and school retention is not just a sectoral issue—it’s a community responsibility,” he noted.
Key components of the initiative include capacity building for teachers and health workers, establishment of school-based peer clubs, community sensitization on adolescent sexual and reproductive health rights (ASRHR), and engagement of parents and local leaders in supporting learners’ wellbeing.
District stakeholders welcomed the program and provided key recommendations to ensure effective implementation, including the integration of activities into existing school and district structures, continued mentorship support, and regular monitoring and learning.
TMF pledged to maintain close coordination with district departments and schools throughout the implementation period and committed to documenting and sharing outcomes to inform broader policy and program efforts.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision to work together in empowering adolescents and improving education and health outcomes in Jinja District.
