A five-day workshop starting today aims to address the high rate of teenage pregnancy in the Ohangwena region.
‘Say No to Teenage Motherhood #Academics First’, by Hilde’s Women and Youth Empowerment, is being held in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund and the Ohangwena Directorate of Education.
The theme of the workshop is ‘Empowering Young People to Make Informed Choices About Their Reproductive Health’.
Organiser Hilde Shindondola says the Ohangwena region has the highest recorded rate of teenage pregnancy in the country.
The workshop aims to educate the youth about the consequences of early pregnancies and the importance of education to prevent teenage pregnancy.
“The event will also provide a platform for participants to share their experiences, learn from each other and develop skills to make informed decisions about their reproductive health,” says Shindondola.
The workshop will be held at Oshela Secondary School, Eenhana Secondary School, Mwadikange Kaulinge Secondary School, Ponhofi Secondary School and Shituwa Secondary School, among others.
Shindondola says more than 2 000 participants are expected to engage in interactive sessions, group discussions and practical exercises designed to impart the knowledge and skills needed to delay sexual debuts and prevent unintended pregnancies.
Shindondola says the workshop is part of efforts to promote the rights and well-being of young people, particularly girls, who are disproportionately affected by early pregnancies.
“We believe this workshop will not only educate young people about their reproductive health but also empower them to take charge of their lives and make informed decisions.
Hilde’s Women and Youth Empowerment is a non-profit organisation established three years ago and based at Okahandja.
The organisation advocates various youth matters, including teenage pregnancy and previously hosted the ‘Say No to Teenage Motherhood’ workshop at different schools in the Otjozondjupa region (Okahandja district).
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