HIV/SRHR as an entry point for adolescent and school health: Resolutions from the AA-HA and ESA Regional Meeting

The 2024 AA-HA! ESA Regional Workshop brought together stakeholders from 18 African countries to advance adolescent health and wellbeing through the renewed ESA Commitment and AA-HA! 2.0 framework. A key takeaway was the strategic use of HIV and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) as entry points for broader adolescent and school health programming. With unsafe sex remaining the leading risk factor for adolescent morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among girls aged 15–19, SRHR interventions are not only urgent but foundational.The workshop emphasised the integration of SRHR into school health systems through Health Promoting Schools (HPS), comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), and youth-friendly services. Countries shared innovative approaches, including mobile health units, digital platforms, and peer-led models to reach vulnerable and out-of-school youth. Participants also highlighted the importance of gender-transformative approaches and meaningful youth engagement in shaping policies and services.By anchoring adolescent health strategies in HIV/SRHR and vice versa, countries can address intersecting challenges such as early pregnancy, school dropout, and gender-based violence, while building resilient, inclusive systems that empower young people.The workshop concluded with a call to action: prioritise adolescent needs, strengthen intersectoral collaboration, and scale up evidence-based, youth-centered interventions.