Keep 500 Sick Kids Alive in Crisis-Hit Communities

Hello,

Stigmatization of sickle cell kids goes beyond the school into adulthood. In Nigeria, one of the most significant examples is the potential exclusion of people living with sickle cell disease from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or from many NYSC activities. NYSC participation is a requirement for many jobs, especially in government and large organizations. Yet many of these student carriers of the disease are discriminated against directly by way of not being admissible to NYSC camp, and even where they managed to somehow get in, are not allowed to participate in the many strenous activities due to their fragile health.

Because sickle cell youths are often exempted from NYSC, they face barriers to employment, reduced opportunities, and unfair assumptions about their abilities. Many employers see the exemption and immediately conclude that the individual is “not strong enough” or “not fit for work,” even when they are fully capable.

This form of systemic stigmatization limits career growth and contributes to longterm economic hardship.

Your support helps us provide the healthcare stability that allows young adults to pursue education, training, and employment opportunities with confidence. It also strengthens our advocacy for fair treatment and equal access.

Thank you for helping us challenge these barriers.

Links:

• Sickle cell: Inquiry reveals institutional racism and failings f