By Staff Reporter
news@alexreporter.co.za
In the Information Age, learning and teaching is not restricted to the classroom, especially when it comes to serious social issues like HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage pregnancy.
Over 200 learners at Alexandra High School marked the end of an eight week campaign titled “Tackling the Twin Pandemic”, which sought to raise awareness on the impact of the rising numbers of teenage pregnancy, HIV and STIs using a blended learning approach.
The campaign, which was initiated by the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) in April, utilised subject matter experts and influencers in the sexual and reproductive health, HIV activists and social influencers to deliver sobering truths, facts, figures and social myths to secondary school learners.
At the campaign closing ceremony, the learners demonstrated that they were indeed engaged and responsive to the messages that had been shared with them over an eight week period.
Two groups of girl learners performed an impromptu play, which highlighted how young people can be cleverly and cunningly tricked into having premature and unprotected sex, with the second play demonstrating techniques and assertive language that one must use to stand their ground and not fall prey to pressures that could negatively affect their lives.
One boy performed an engaging poetry recital, while two other learners delivered an uplifting musical performance called “Sizophumelela” meaning “we will succeed”.
MC and programme director, Nicolette Mashile reminded learners that when it comes to HIV, STIs and pregnancy, ignorance is not bliss. “Be mindful of the language someone uses to manipulate you into a tricky situation and remember that saying ‘No’ does not make you less of a person,” Mashile emphasised.
She encouraged them to make bold choices to safeguard their health and their future. She advised that students should make abstinence a priority. If they cannot abstain, to ensure that they always condomise as precaution and get tested for HIV and STIs.
Strategic Projects Officer at TETA, Haremakale Ramakhetheng highlighted the importance of utilising social partners from multiple sectors to tackle the challenges that young people face.
She encouraged the learners to focus on their studies and understand that falling pregnant or contracting a sexually transmitted infection can delay them, and sometimes, even deny young girls and boys the opportunity to study further, to access bursaries and to be active participants in the economy. “One of the reasons TETA implements these types of interventions is because of the alarming numbers of infection.
It was reported that 8900 boys and girls between the ages of 15 and 24 years were infected with HIV and 150 000 young girls were pregnant in South Africa in 2023.
Many of these girls either fall behind on their school and some drop out. Government, the private sector and communities all have a role to play in arresting this trend,” Ramakhetheng emphasised.
Ramakgetheng also handed over 200 much-needed care packs to the learners, which included sanitary pads and other essential toiletries.
Head of Department for Life Orientation at Alex High, Mr Mahlase thanked all stakeholders present for empowering the learners with valuable knowledge and supporting the school to address some of the challenges it faces, including lack of resources.
He reminded learners, especially the young girls, that they can take control over their bodies, be assertive and know that nobody has the right to force anybody to do something against their wishes. “Be assertive and stand your ground, no matter how difficult it is,” he added.
The event ended on a high note with a surprise performance by amapiano artist, Tall Arse Tee, who was born and raised in Alexandra.
Tall Arse Tee also delivered a message of support for young people to stay focused on completing their studies first and secure their futures through hard work.
