Life Skills and Peer Education for Chadian Youth

Life Skills sessions offered by Blue Cross Chad provide young people with a rare opportunity to explore and understand important topics that are often ignored or considered taboo within their families. These sessions help clarify doubts and strengthen knowledge around key aspects that are essential for their personal development such as emotional well-being or sexual and reproductive health. 

In Chad, the Sexual- and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) sessions are especially impactful – not just because of the information shared, but because of the deep, trusting bonds built. A cornerstone of their success therefore lies in the strong relationships built between facilitators – so called Focal Points – and the youth. These trusted adults create a safe, supportive space where girls who are victims of violence feel empowered to share their experiences, voice their concerns, and confront topics that are otherwise silenced at home. 

In contexts where talking about violence is discouraged or resolved superficially – sometimes through financial compensation that silences the issue – Blue Cross’s peer approach becomes essential. These peer support groups offer a space for dialogue, empathy, and personal growth in societies where formal support services are not well established or difficult to access. 

Big thanks to Blue Cross Chad for truly changing lives! So many young people are finally getting the support and encouragement they don’t have at home – and that makes all the difference!