ARISE-DASH PROJECT
Adolescence is a critical stage of life when significant physical, cognitive, and social developments take place. During this period, essential behaviors related to diet, exercise, alcohol and tobacco use, violence, and sexual activity are formed and adopted. These behaviors not only shape an individual’s well-being during youth but also influence long-term health outcomes in adulthood. Addressing adolescent health is vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering healthier societies.
The ARISE-DASH (Design and Evaluation of Adolescent Health Interventions and Policies in Sub-Saharan Africa) project is a multi-country research initiative aimed at enhancing adolescent health outcomes through evidence-based policies and interventions. Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), this five-year project (2023-2028) brings together a network of institutions, researchers, and policymakers committed to addressing the unique health challenges faced by adolescents in the region.
Objectives of DASH
Determine the key health risk factors and intervention needs among adolescents in SSA
Developing a methodological framework for researching adolescent health interventions in SSA
Locally design and pilot test adolescent health literacy and nudge intervention
- Establish effects, impacts and mechanisms of adolescent health literacy and nudge interventions on health knowledge and understanding, health behaviors and outcomes in SSA
- Establish effects, impacts and mechanisms of key national and regional adolescent health policies in SSA
Collaborative Network and Implementation
The ARISE-DASH project is being executed through a collaborative network spanning multiple African and international institutions. Implementing partners include Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, and Burkina Faso, while collaborating institutions from Germany, Serbia, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States provide technical and academic support. This global alliance facilitates knowledge exchange, comparative research, and innovative health solutions for adolescents in Africa.
The Role of the University of Ibadan Research Foundation (UI-RF)
The University of Ibadan Research Foundation (UI-RF) plays a pivotal role in the ARISE-DASH initiative by spearheading efforts to address critical adolescent health challenges. UI-RF is particularly focused on key health risks and behavioral trends among adolescents, including poor nutrition, mental health struggles, sexual and reproductive health issues, and overall well-being. By leading research, policy engagement, and community interventions, UI-RF contributes to fostering a healthier adolescent population and advancing Nigeria’s broader public health goals.
Capacity Building and Policy Advocacy
One of the major pillars of the ARISE-DASH initiative is equipping young researchers with the necessary skills to conduct public health research, collect and analyze data, and evaluate intervention programs. This capacity-building approach ensures a sustainable framework for ongoing adolescent health research. Additionally, the project actively engages policymakers to integrate findings into national health agendas, advocating for evidence-based strategies that enhance adolescent well-being across Africa.
Expected Outcomes and Impact
Through its collaborative efforts, ARISE-DASH aims to develop sustainable, scalable solutions that enhance adolescent health and well-being across sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative is expected to produce highly skilled researchers and generate policy recommendations to address adolescent health challenges, particularly in managing nutrition-related noncommunicable diseases. By bridging research and policy, ARISE-DASH contributes to shaping healthier societies, empowering young people with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed health decisions, and supporting national efforts toward achieving SDG targets related to health and well-being.