Young leaders from public universities across Zimbabwe have pledged to strengthen peer-led health education and moral accountability initiatives on their campuses following a Public Campus Ministries (PCM) HIV/AIDS Peer Educator Seminar held from February 18–21, 2026, in Mutare.

The training, organized by the Zimbabwe East Union Conference (ZEUC) PCM and Health Ministries, brought together student leaders who head Seventh-day Adventist associations at public universities. The seminar focused on equipping them with knowledge and practical tools to promote informed decision-making on HIV prevention, sexuality, and holistic health within tertiary institutions.

Dr. B. Sikwa, executive director of Adventist AIDS International Ministry (AAIM), led several sessions addressing identity, personal choices, sexual and reproductive health challenges, and the importance of structured peer support systems.

“This is not just about information,” said Sikwa. “It is about empowering young people to make healthy decisions and to create environments where others can also choose wisely.”

During her presentation, Sikwa emphasized the formation of church-based support groups as a sustainable strategy for accountability and care among young people.

“We have materials that can help you organize church support groups,” she said. “Do not wait for someone else to start. Take the initiative, print the resources, and begin structured groups that support one another in making responsible choices.”

She referenced the model of “grandmother’s clubs,” which emerged during the height of the HIV epidemic when grandparents assumed responsibility for orphaned children.

“These clubs were formed because grandmothers found themselves caring for children who had lost parents to HIV,” Sikwa explained. “They created safe spaces for support, encouragement, and practical care. The church became a community outpost even during the week.”

Drawing parallels to campus life, she urged student leaders to replicate similar models among young people.

“Young people must empower each other,” she said. “Form support groups. Form charity clubs. Help one another to stay pure, to stay focused, and to live responsibly. The church must be the safest place for our children and our youth.”

In addition to health education, the seminar broadened the understanding of ministry in public institutions. Walter Utete, ZEUC Youth PCM director, challenged participants to integrate their academic disciplines with service-oriented outreach.

“Ministry today must go beyond pitching a tent for two weeks and then disappearing,” Utete said. “If you are training to be a doctor, a veterinarian, a computer scientist, a fashion designer, or an educator, use those skills to transform vulnerable communities. That is lasting ministry.”

He encouraged students to view their professions as platforms for witness and community transformation.

“When you use your knowledge to solve real problems in communities, you preach a sermon that people can see and experience,” he added.

Participants described the seminar as timely and practical, particularly given the pressures young people face at public universities.

“This training has opened our eyes,” said one student leader from a state university. “We now understand that leadership in our associations must include health education and structured support systems. What we have learned here will help many students on our campuses.”

Another participant said the emphasis on peer accountability was especially impactful.

“We are going back ready to form support groups and charity initiatives,” she said. “These lessons will not remain in Mutare. They will reach our universities and strengthen our associations.”

Organizers indicated that printed materials on organizing church support groups and initiating new campus-based groups will be shared with participants to facilitate immediate implementation.

By equipping student leaders with factual health information, structured support strategies, and a broader vision of mission, the seminar sought to position young Adventists at public universities as informed advocates and responsible role models within their institutions.

As one participant summarized, “We have been empowered to help each other make healthy decisions—and to help others do the same.”

This article was provided by the Zimbabwe East Union Conference located in the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division.