The programme uses entertaining yet educational strategies such as puppet theatre as a tool to develop awareness of issues related to alcoholism and drugs, violence, nutrition, dental care, HIV/AIDS, and unemployment. The programme also uses short plays to teach children and teenagers fundamental life skills and to break the barrier of silence surrounding HIV/AIDS. The idea is that art can be used to shift the culture of silence in the country, and to spur people out of a state of apathy. Puppets and theatre are methods for transforming the dry lesson materials of what "you may or may not do" into happy lessons, where children learn through play.

Youth participation is also key to Talking Hands. The organisation trains teenagers to run sustainable and informed organisations dealing with HIV/AIDS, teen pregnancy, rape and abuse, unsafe abortions, and related issues. The project also organises participatory workshops on adolescent reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, and teenage pregnancy.

Youth, Children, Health, Nutrition, HIV/AIDS.

The organisers make all the puppets themselves, and also devise the plays. They pack their puppets and equipment into large cardboard boxes, along with the stage scenery, and travel to schools in the province.

According to organisers, "The majority of boys and girls who take part in the programme discover what is meant by the words creativity and artistic development."