Sex education should be incorporated into the curriculum

We cannot ignore the fact that minors are engaging in sexual activity. In fact, the quicker we accept it the better, so we can attack the problem. Educating students about all the possibilities and consequences that come with engaging in sexual activities will help in curbing the problems that may come with it.

Don’t shoot the messenger!

31 Dec 2022

ANGER DIRECTED at the media for reporting the celebration of a 14-yearold giving birth to twins, in keeping with the annual Christmas morning ritual at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital, is clearly misdirected.

The fact of early motherhood ought not be covered up, and this particular event reminded the nation that the battle against teenage pregnancy is ongoing. Indeed, despite some laudable gains in the reduction of adolescent pregnancies over the last 20 years, 71 births per 1,000 women, down from 131, teenage pregnancy remains one of the significant public health issues which the nation’s policy-makers, planners, parents, healthcare professionals and related agencies must deal with.

The scope of the problem does not end with the impact on the mothers’ and babies’ health, but has tremendous impact on their economic and social status and, by extension, the country’s development prospects. Studies conducted in similar Third World countries like ours have identified risks among sexually active teenagers, such as poor mental health, HIV infections, stress, emotional isolation and even suicidal ideation.

Lack of sexual education, including family planning and the use of modern contraceptive methods, appears to be missing in our schools because the system continues to pretend that young students are not engaging in sexual activity. It is imperative that sex education be incorporated into the school curriculum, including training peer counsellors to engage with fellow students. Of course, all education begins at home, so parents have to be part of the solution by engaging in open discussions with their children.

ROLE OF THE CHURCH

As we think of all the institutions that must play a part in nationbuilding, we cannot forget the role expected of the Church in shaping attitudes and providing spiritual support. The reality is that most churches would not want to be seen embracing an unmarried teenage mother, and only a few would likely offer any kind of support. After all, the Church preaches abstinence, and, even though that is the best way to prevent pregnancy, the reality is that many pre-teens are already engaging in sexual activity.

We applaud The Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation programme, which has been operating since the 1970s, for its Programme for Adolescent Mothers. The foundation has established several centres throughout the country to offer psychosocial and financial support to pregnant girls. It has made continuing education and empowerment the centrepiece of its services. Alas, this comes after the unplanned pregnancy has come to fruition. Though this is a welcome intervention, perhaps more resources ought to be concentrated on prevention efforts.

The teenage mother at the centre of this story has expressed her intention to return to school to continue her education. This is commendable, for it is an indication that she understands that strengthening her education will give her the best option at having a better life. Looking ahead, she faces a tough future with not one, but two children to take care of.

The most glaring question of all is what should happen to the boys or men who impregnate these teenagers. There are laws which are intended to punish men who engage in sexual activity with minors, and they should be stringently enforced. When considering how to reduce teenage pregnancy, the factors to be considered include family and community responsibility, as well as government involvement.

Ultimately, education is the key to a positive future. Let’s understand that teenage pregnancy is a consequence of educational deficiency.

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