The lecturers from the Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences (PKIP), Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Diponegoro, further strengthened youth capacity in Tembalang Village, Semarang City, through the implementation of a Training of Trainers program initiating a youth-based Warga Peduli AIDS (WPA) program in collaboration with Karang Taruna. This activity was designed to encourage the active role of young people as health education agents and peer counselors in the prevention of HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases at the community level.
The training was conducted offline at the Tembalang Village Hall and emphasized a participatory and practical approach. Participants not only gained a deeper understanding of HIV/AIDS and stigma-related issues but also developed skills in health communication, peer counseling, and the creation of simple educational media such as posters and short videos. Interactive learning activities, including discussions, simulations, and hands-on practice, were applied to build participants’ confidence in delivering health messages to the community.
Evaluation results showed improvements in participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and communication skills following the activity. In addition to preparing youth cadres who are better equipped to contribute to HIV/AIDS prevention efforts, the program also produced educational media that can be utilized for ongoing health campaigns in Tembalang Village. This activity further reflected the commitment of PKIP FKM UNDIP lecturers to implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education through youth-based community empowerment.
