GEORGE NEWS - A fun and informative programme and exhibitions to create awareness of sexual and reproductive health services available for teens were presented for learners of Pacaltsdorp Secondary School on Tuesday 19 March.
The event was organised by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness (WCDOHW) in collaboration with various other stakeholders such as LoveLife, Sahara (Smoking and Alcohol Harms Alleviation and Rehabilitation Association), Planet Youth, Options Care Centre, Womb to Tomb, Suff Academy, the Western Cape Education Department, Famsa (Families South Africa), StatsSA and the SA Police Service.
There is general concern in South Africa over high pregnancy rates among adolescent girls as well as sexually transmitted diseases among teens and the focus of speakers and entertainers was to create awareness of self-worth, responsibility and the consequences of sexual behaviour.
The focus was also on mental health and the health services available to young people.
Some of Sahara's representatives who interacted with the learners, from left: Abigail van der Berg, Leighshay Leen, Batya Cele (mentor), Anishka Louw and Franco-Jean Loggerenberg.
Loyiso Mankomo from LoveLife said learners should make their clinic their friend where there are youth zones specifically focused on serving young people.
Advice, information and health screening are available here.
Natalie Mentoor from the Education Department spoke about self-worth and how youth should not let negative speak break them down and make them believe that they are worthless.
Dr Zilla North, medical manager of the George sub-district, said broken relationships are the cause of the negative behaviours that lead to HIV, teen pregnancies, bullying and substance abuse.
"If we can fix relationships, we will be able to move forward, so I am excited that we are building meaningful connections in our school communities with programmes like this."
Nathaniël Petersen from LoveLife said they were very satisfied with the turnout of learners. “We also appreciate the collaboration of all stakeholders and look forward to doing similar programmes across the Garden Route in the near future.”
PHOTO GALLERY: Fun and informative event focuses on teen health
Natalie Mentoor teaching on self-worth with the help of one of the learners, Harriet Kok.
The programme held the attention of the young audience.
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