By Ayo Onikoyi

In September 2021, the African Institute of Public Health Professionals (AIPHP) honored Rita Chukwu, a Nigerian lecturer and environmental health consultant from the Department of Public Health at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria, with a meritorious award as a fellow of the institute for her selfless contribution to health care development and the safety of mankind.

A statement highlighted Rita’s significant contribution to promoting the health of high school students and ensuring the safety and well-being of staff and students at the Federal University of Technology Owerri in Nigeria.

“Her position as an environmental health consultant, licensed by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), where she periodically conducts inspections at the university canteen, students’ hostels, and staff offices to ensure compliance with public health regulations that promote health and safety, serves as an inspiration for those aiming to promote positive environmental and societal change,” the statement noted. It praised her commitment to advocating for standard safety practices and her efforts to give back to the community.

Rita, who holds a bachelor’s degree in public health and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, stated: “School health programs addressing risky behaviors like substance use, sexual risk behaviors, and poor menstrual hygiene are essential for promoting the health and well-being of adolescents and emerging adults. Schools can serve as key venues where adolescents and youth learn about the factors affecting their health. Additionally, they can provide or coordinate a range of necessary health care services.

“When implemented, school health programs, including comprehensive sex education, counseling, health services, and environmental safety, have proven to be effective in preventing adolescent risky behaviors and their associated health outcomes, such as STIs, including HIV, poor academic performance, teenage pregnancies, poor mental health, and all forms of violence and workplace injury.” She added.

“Another aspect of Rita’s dedication to contributing to society is her volunteer role in supervising the World Health Organization’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), which is crucial in preventing the spread of communicable diseases in the country.”