Tebello A Sesinyi
As a peace scholar, advocate for Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), and teacher, I have seen firsthand the impact of inadequate information on our children’s lives. It is time for us to take a step forward and have open, honest conversations with our teenagers about physical changes, child development stages, and adolescent growth.
We often shy away from discussing sensitive topics like bedroom matters, love affairs, and marriage, fearing it might encourage our children to explore these areas prematurely. However, this silence can lead to misinformation, unhealthy relationships, and a lack of understanding about their own bodies and emotions.
Our children are growing up faster than ever, and they need accurate, age-appropriate information to navigate the challenges they face. As parents, relatives, teachers, and responsible adults, we have to provide them with the right guidance and support.
The consequences of not discussing SRHR with our children can be devastating. Unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and HIV infections are just a few of the risks they face. Moreover, the emotional trauma and mental health issues that can result from these experiences can last a lifetime.
Unsafe sexual activities can have a profound impact on our children’s education. In Lesotho, when a girl becomes pregnant, she is often forced to drop out of school, missing out on critical educational opportunities. This can lead to a range of negative consequences.
The trauma and stress of an unplanned pregnancy can lead to mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Dropping out of school can limit a young person’s future educational and career prospects. Without access to education and economic opportunities, young people may be more likely to engage in unhealthy relationships and end up engaging in criminal activities.
To support our children effectively, we need to be open and honest with them about where to find help when they need it. This includes informing our children about the nearest clinics or health facilities where they can access medical help, including contraceptives, STD testing, and mental health services.
We can also encourage children to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health, and provide them with resources for counselling or therapy.
Children need guidance and support as this will encourage them to come to their responsible adults with any questions or concerns they may have.
As parents, it is essential to have open and honest conversations with our children about relationships. This includes discussing with our children when it is appropriate for them to start dating, and what they should expect from a romantic relationship.
Let us teach our children the signs of a healthy relationship, such as mutual respect, trust, and communication. Also, teach our children the signs of an unhealthy relationship, such as manipulation, control, or abuse. In addition, encourage our children to end a relationship if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
I urge Basotho and African parents to join me in breaking the silence around SRHR. Let us speak with respect, mercy, mutual love, and care about these critical issues. By doing so, we can create a better world for our children, where they can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. It is time for us to take responsibility for our children’s education and well-being.
By providing them with comprehensive sex education, we can empower them to make informed choices, protect their health, and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Sesinyi is a peace scholar at Makerere University.
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