From June 1st to June 10th, 2024, ECOV conducted a series of guidance and counseling sessions in Kamuli and Luuka districts, targeting boys and girls in five primary schools. The sessions aimed to equip young students with essential knowledge on sexual reproductive health, focusing on the prevention of teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and understanding children’s rights.
The activity employed a question-and-answer facilitation method to engage students in discussions about their developmental stages, bodily changes, and how these influence sexuality and behavior. Pre-printed photographs depicting teenage pregnancy were used to stimulate dialogue, allowing students to reflect on the implications of early pregnancy and explore better choices. Senior teachers supported the sessions by keeping records of the students who participated, ensuring that counseling services were available as needed.
A total of 25 children, including 15 girls and 10 boys, participated in the sessions, which are set to continue throughout the school term. The initiative aimed to reach 25 children per school term as a follow-up to previous awareness sessions. The schools involved included Kimato, Biguno, and Nabyoto primary schools in Luuka district, and Malugulya and Bulimira primary schools in Kamuli district.
The results showed a significant improvement in students’ understanding of sexual reproductive health, with more than 50% opting for abstinence as a strategy to avoid teenage pregnancies. Some students expressed concerns about facing harsh parental reactions if they became pregnant, indicating that they might consider abortion or leaving school due to stigma and stress. These mixed responses prompted a post-session conference with senior teachers to discuss strategies for addressing the diverse needs and challenges faced by students.
The sessions successfully created a more open environment for discussing sexual health, enabling students to seek guidance and share their experiences. Follow-up actions include providing teachers with additional life skills training to further support the students.
Despite the positive outcomes, the program faced challenges. Some schools felt excluded, as not all institutions were initially involved. ECOV reassured them that future sessions would include more schools as part of an ongoing effort to expand the program.
Lessons learned from the activity highlighted the importance of consistent guidance and counseling, with schools showing significant progress in incorporating these practices into their routines. Recommendations from the sessions emphasized equipping students with practical life skills alongside counseling to promote healthy decision-making.
The report also featured personal stories from participants, including a student named Nambi Hellen, who shared how the sessions helped her understand changes in her body and prepared her for future experiences related to her reproductive health.
