PIRWA, with support from DHRLab, GIZ and Future Challenges, implemented an advocacy initiative aimed at increasing awareness of the dangers of teenage pregnancy among young people, parents and communities in Apac and Kwania Districts. The initiative recognized the importance of access to accurate information and community engagement in preventing teenage pregnancy and supporting young people to remain in school, complete their education and achieve their potential.
The initiative conducted awareness sessions at Apac Secondary School and Aduku Secondary School, reaching 109 participants, including 96 learners and key school and community stakeholders. Participants explored the causes, effects and dangers of teenage pregnancy and discussed practical ways in which young people, parents, schools and communities can contribute to its prevention. Beyond the classroom, PIRWA used football as an advocacy and mobilization tool, bringing together boys, girls, school leaders, local leaders and community members around the message “End Teenage Pregnancy.” The activity created an opportunity for young people and community stakeholders to openly discuss the issue and commit to collective action. The advocacy message was further amplified through a radio talk show on Divine 90.6 FM, extending awareness to the wider community.
The intervention demonstrated that preventing teenage pregnancy requires more than awareness among young people. Parents, teachers, community leaders, local government, schools and young people themselves all have an important role to play. The project identified gaps in knowledge and capacity among communities and school stakeholders, reinforcing the need for sustained awareness campaigns and capacity building for those working directly with young people.
PIRWA and its partners remain committed to strengthening community-based approaches that equip young people with relevant information, empower families and schools, and encourage local leadership in addressing teenage pregnancy by bringing together education, community dialogue, media advocacy and youth engagement, the initiative contributes to creating safer and more supportive environments where young people can make informed decisions and pursue their education and aspirations.
Together, we can empower young people, strengthen communities and take meaningful steps towards ending teenage pregnancy.
Read some of the testimonials, stories, and community voices from some of our project participants.
Being a teenager is hard because sometimes we are disrespectful to our teachers and parents even when they are telling us the right things. I am happy I participated in the school outreach program organized by PIRWA because they taught us how to be respectful young adults.
I do not get enough support from my parents because they focus more on paying school fees and forget that I need other basic requirements like sanitary pads, lotion, etc so I get tempted by men who want to give me those things in exchange for sex but I refuse.
I love football because it gives me the chance to connect with my peers and discuss ssome of the isssues affecting us. I was happy to participate in the football match organized by PIRWA because they taught us about the dangers of teenage pregnancy.
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