Lecturer Calls for Greater Focus on Boys, Says Men Are ‘Crying Silently’

What the report says

A lecturer in Lira, Ajwer Norman Ocen of Victoria School of Nursing and Midwifery, is calling for stronger attention to the welfare, education and development of boys. Speaking in connection with his forthcoming book, *What About We the Boys?*, he argued that boys have often been left out of some social and development efforts, even though they are expected to take on major responsibilities as they grow into adulthood.

Ajwer, who is also a radio presenter at Unity FM and a proprietor of Life Spring Medical Center, said support for girls should continue, but not at the expense of boys who may also face serious pressures. He said challenges such as mental health concerns, addiction, peer pressure, relationship problems, emotional strain and financial hardship are often discussed less openly among men and boys, leaving some to struggle without help.

He urged parents, schools, local leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders to expand mentorship, counselling, life-skills training, career guidance and vocational opportunities for boys and young men. He also asked adults to create spaces where boys can speak freely about their worries rather than being judged or ignored.

The article presents his remarks as part of a broader debate on gender-focused programming in Uganda. In general, such arguments reflect a growing push for more balanced youth policy, though the report itself centers on Ajwer’s view that investing early in boys could help reduce later social and family problems.