The Medical Students Association of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has engaged in an open conversation with sexually active adolescents in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region. The discussion hinged on the critical importance of abstaining from sex to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.
According to the Association, though Ghana's cultural orientation frowned on open discussions about sexual reproductive health and rights, it was important for the narrative to change. The group noted that this would allow children and youth to take charge of their reproductive health and lives.
The President of the Association, Mr. Austin Ngoga, made the remarks at a durbar to mark the 16th Annual Health Week Celebration of the Association at the Mankessim Community Centre in the Mfantseman Municipality.
President of the Association, Mr. Austin Ngoga
It was on the theme, " Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Policies: The Role of all Stakeholders".
He advised young people to delay sexual activities to enable them to focus on the development of their full potential. To him, delaying sexual activities was not a denial at a tender age, but an opportunity to promote a healthier population, especially among the girl-child who often suffer from early sex, resulting in unprepared pregnancies and associated risky behaviours.
He noted that effective communication between parents and children was key to preventing adolescents from risky behaviour and urged parents to be open with their children, particularly the girls.
Acting Central Regional Director of Health, Dr. Mrs. Agnes Anane
The Acting Central Regional Director of Health, Dr. Mrs. Agnes Akyeama Anane, in a remark, spoke extensively about the different types of Sexually Transmitted Infections and their dangers to the lives of children.
She encouraged them to stay away from sex. “At this point in your lives, your education should be your priority,” said Dr Anane.
Prof. Sebastian Eliason, the Dean of the School of Medical Sciences, urged the students to take all the advice seriously and not become liabilities to their parents after school.
Dean of the School of Medical Sciences, Prof. Sebastian Eliason addressing the gathering
He said he expected the impactful discussion to leave a lasting impression on the students, empowering them to make responsible life choices.
The Chairperson of the durbar, Nana Dr. Ama Amissah III, the Queen mother of Mankessim, counselled the adolescent girls to be assertive and reject all forms of persuasion to yield to sexual demands from the opposite sex.
She told them to love their bodies and always remember that their future was at stake in the event of an unwanted pregnancy.
"As adolescent girls, boys are bound to chase you, but it is within your right to turn them down and focus on your education”, she told the young girls.
Chairperson for the durbar, Nana Dr. Ama Amissah III, the Queen mother of Mankessim
She entreated them not to succumb to bad influences from their peers and to visit health facilities with adolescent-friendly corners for professional advice on sexual and reproductive health issues.
She advised parents to draw closer to their adolescent girls and give them the needed advice cautioning them of the imminent danger ahead if they shirked that parental duty.
The event provided a safe and supportive space for the pupils to ask questions and express their concerns.
The medical students gracefully responded to each query from the adolescents, emphasizing the significance of open communication with trusted adults, teachers, or healthcare professionals when addressing sensitive topics related to sexual health.
A participant posing a question at the event
The beneficiary students expressed their gratitude for the medical students’ visit, highlighting the significance of having such discussions in the community.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC