Nyamutooro calls for sexual and reproductive health officers in schools to support learners

What the report says

State Minister for Energy Phiona Nyamutooro has urged Ugandan authorities to review adolescent health policy and consider placing sexual and reproductive health officers in schools. According to Nile Post, she said schools need stronger support systems to help learners cope with issues such as mental health challenges, early pregnancies and a lack of trusted adults to turn to.

Nyamutooro made the remarks at the graduation of Peer Educators organised by Reach A Hand Uganda in Lungujja, Kampala. The event brought together more than 100 students who were trained to support their peers on health and social issues. She argued that many young people face problems in silence and need better access to guidance, reliable information and safe spaces within school settings.

The minister also called on government and Parliament to examine the proposed ordinance requiring every school to have sexual and reproductive health officials. Her comments reflect a wider debate in Uganda over how schools should respond to adolescent wellbeing, including reproductive health and mental health support.

At the same ceremony, Reach A Hand Uganda chief executive Humfrey Nabimanya praised the graduating peer educators and said their work is part of a broader effort to build young leaders who can share knowledge and improve their communities.