Blog

After the awareness session organized on February 9, 2026, at the Lac Vert Campus of the University of Goma, the Écho Santé UNIGOM program has intensified its efforts by expanding its campaign to other higher education institutions in the city of Goma.

On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, under the leadership of the Provincial Health Division of North Kivu, a large community awareness campaign was organized for the students of the Higher Institute of Computer Science and Management (ISIG Goma) and the Higher Institute of Commerce (ISC Goma).

From Targeted Action to Broader Mobilization

While the first activity at the Lac Vert Campus was organized in the form of an interactive focus group, this new phase combined mass awareness and small group discussions, allowing for a wider audience while maintaining a participatory framework.

The objective remains the same: to strengthen young people's knowledge about sickle cell disease, promote premarital and neonatal screening, encourage the performance of hemoglobin electrophoresis, and combat the misconceptions surrounding this genetic disease.

Revealing Findings

The discussions highlighted a significant information deficit. Nearly 95% of the sensitized students were unaware of the existence or genetic nature of sickle cell disease. Some still associated it with witchcraft, bad luck, or non-scientific theories.

Thanks to the explanations provided by health experts and the interactive discussions, participants were able to better understand the transmission mechanisms, complications, and preventive measures of the disease. This educational approach helped to deconstruct myths and promote a data-driven approach.

Towards a Sustainable Community Dynamic

By extending awareness beyond its own campus, the University of Goma confirms its commitment as an institution dedicated to serving the community.

Through the Écho Santé UNIGOM program, sensitized students are now called to become community relays, capable of disseminating reliable information and promoting responsible behaviors within their families and respective environments.

Through this intensification of the campaign, the University of Goma actively contributes to building a conscious, informed, and engaged youth in the face of major public health challenges.