The First Lady and minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataha Museveni, on Saturday cautioned secondary school students against engaging in sexual immorality.
She was addressing students, drawn from 52 schools across the country, during conclusion of a two-day Life- Skills Summit for secondary school student leaders, held at Kololo Independence Grounds.
“Engaging in sexual immorality leads to the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS or other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and early pregnancy”, she said.
She called on the girls to uphold their virginity till the ripe time for marriage which is after school.
“If you remain a virgin, you hold much respect than those who have become pregnant while still at school”, she said.
She cautioned the youth to be aware of social media that promotes bad behaviour. “Government is concerned that ICT has come with negative influences. Social media and internet are directly and indirectly affecting our moral values”, she added.
The first lady promised her ministry's commitment towards addressing issues pertaining to challenges facing adolescent girls and boys in schools.
She said the summits will be held regularly, to reach as many young people as possible, to keep their lives safe and clean.
Kedrace Turyagenda, the director of Education Standards Agency said: “Many school going young people remain silent on adolescent related challenges, which is why these summits play the role of enabling the youth speak out their issues freely ”.
Aggrey Kibenge, the Undersecretary in the Ministry of Education underscored the need for students to understand the importance of sex education. He said cases of abortion in schools are contrary to Uganda’s moral values.
“The lessons you have learned from this summit are intended to fine tune you, to grow up as responsible citizens”, he said.
The Summit was organized under the theme: “My Life, My Responsibility”, in partnership with Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD)
