Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a significant area of concern, particularly among young people. They face increased risks due to their vulnerability and lack of adequate information. This is why awareness initiatives, such as the one organized at the Cirezi school complex in Uvira, have an essential role to play in the prevention and fight against STIs.
As part of its sexual and reproductive health rights program, the NGO SOS femmes et enfants en catastrophe (SOS FEC) organized an awareness session for more than a hundred students from the Cirezi school complex. Participants were able to deepen their knowledge of STIs through question-and-answer games and discussions.
It is encouraging to see that some young people already have a good understanding of the risks associated with unprotected sex and the importance of seeking medical advice if necessary. A student testified about her learning during the session: “We must avoid unprotected sexual relations, so as not to have infections which result in death, sterility or miscarriages.”
However, it is important to emphasize that the responsibility for sex education should not rest solely on the shoulders of schools. Parents play a crucial role in transmitting information and raising awareness among their children. Annie Nturubika Indi, head of the NGO SOS FEC/Uvira, underlines the importance of parent-child dialogue: “Children today know a lot more about sex than us parents! We must talk to them about the advantages and the disadvantages of sex.”
The fight against STIs is not limited to raising awareness, but also involves concrete measures to promote adequate hygiene conditions. The head of the Cirezi school complex, Bienvenu Bakungule, is committed to this fight by ensuring the disinfection of the school latrines and designating students to maintain the cleanliness of the classrooms.
It is also essential to emphasize that adolescents are particularly exposed to STIs during vacations or school breaks. This is why it is important to continue awareness initiatives throughout the year, ensuring that young people have access to reliable information and resources to enable them to make informed health decisions. sexual.
In conclusion, awareness and prevention of STIs among young people are crucial issues in our society. It is essential to provide young people with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health. This requires collaboration between schools, civil society organizations and parents to ensure a healthy and educational environment.