2 Nov 2015, Addis Ababa - A youth advisory board on the Strengthening and Coordination to increase Access to Adolescents and Young People (SCAA&YP) on Sexual Reproductive Health Rights project was launched at the AUC headquarters. This was an initiative of the African Union Commission HRST department together with International Planned Parenthood Federation African Region (IPPFAR), with support from the David & Lucille Packard Foundation. 

The main purpose of the board, which consists of 10 youth organizations representing all 5 regions of the African Union is to serve as a youth consultative organ that promotes, advises, supports and significantly contribute to the project. They will ensure that the voice, ownership and contribution of young people are well captured in guiding the efforts to strengthen coordinate and advocate for increased access to sexual reproductive health services and rights for young people in Africa. 

In her opening statement, the Ag Head of the Youth Division, Dr Beatrice Njenga said that the project is in existence due to the significant contribution of the young people.

The board members were selected after they responded to a call and met the selection criteria. They will serve for a period of 1 year when a new board will be selected.