Students Challenged to Say No to Drugs, Peer Pressure and Early Pregnancy

What the report says

Dokolo Post reported that students at St. Francis Vocational Training School in Dokolo Town Council were urged to avoid drug abuse, early pregnancy, harmful peer influence and other risky behaviours during a mentorship programme organized by Platform for Community Empowerment (PLACE) in partnership with Dokolo District Local Government.

According to the report, PLACE Executive Director Franchise Osika told learners that discipline, respect for parents and teachers, and focus on personal goals were important for academic and personal development. He warned that drug abuse can damage young people’s talents and future opportunities, and said negative peer groups may expose students to crime, sexual misconduct and other dangers.

Community Liaison Officer Moses Ogwal advised students to avoid early marriage and remain committed to education, describing schooling as a pathway to improving their own lives and supporting their families. Medical Clinical Officer Ambrose Ogwang, also known as Awitong, cautioned against early sexual activity because of the risk of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, and encouraged students to seek timely medical care, maintain hygiene and eat balanced diets.

Rev. Bernard Oribo also warned learners against early pregnancies and romantic relationships while in school, saying such distractions could affect learning and academic performance. Speaking for the school, Apio Minca Sheba encouraged students to apply the lessons from the session and thanked PLACE and the district local government for supporting the initiative. The programme reflects wider community efforts in Uganda to use school-based mentorship to address adolescent health, education retention and life-skills development.