PG DIPLOMA IN ADOLESCENT HEALTH AND EDUCATION)

Adolescence is characterized by rapid change, when events and experiences have significant implications and consequences for later life. As they develop, adolescents adopt new roles of social responsibility, acquire skills and access opportunities necessary for functioning in adult life. The health and, even more importantly, the knowledge, attitudes and practices of adolescents are regarded as essential factors when predicting the process of epidemiological transition of a population. The current lifestyles of adolescents, such as eating habits and reproductive behaviour, are crucial for the health and disease patterns that will be observed in the future. Nevertheless, during these formative years, adolescents are subject to many influences dominating their internal and external environment. These include: parents, teachers, peer groups, health care providers, media, and religious and cultural norms in the community. Knowledge of the significant rapid physical, mental and social changes occurring during this critical stage of life helps adolescents to absorb and adapt to these changes and enables them to avoid becoming victims of many serious illnesses.

Motivated by the urgent need bridge the gap in the knowledge of adolescents, their parents and other concerned partners, ANNAMALAI UNIVERSITY in Collaboration with Institute of Health and Management Studies has introduced a new program in form of PG Diploma in Adolescent Health & Education . The Program is addressed to priority target groups, namely: parents, teachers, health workers and media; which will equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to communicate effectively with young people.