Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, has voiced a call to action to protect young girls from losing their innocence at a tender age due to early motherhood. Statistics reveal a sobering reality: within the first half of this year, eight girls under the age of 15 became mothers. Kiran has urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to develop mechanisms that safeguard children from sexual violence, emphasizing that education on reproductive health is crucial in preventing such occurrences.
Kiran highlighted the vulnerability of young girls, often preyed upon by predators within their own homes and communities. She pointed out the stark reality these girls face—bearing the burden of caring for a child while their own futures are compromised. Accordingly, Kiran is collaborating with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Their joint effort is to equip children with essential reproductive health information via schools, the Girl Guides, and Tertiary Students Association, among others.
Kiran’s concern aligns with her previous warnings about the cycle of abuse. Not only does abuse create lifelong trauma, but it may also lead to victims becoming abusers if not appropriately rehabilitated. She stresses the need for societal introspection and the establishment of protective measures, as well as community involvement, to break this cycle of abuse and provide a nurturing environment for healing.
The ministry’s proactive approach reflects a broader societal obligation to protect the vulnerable and educate the young, ensuring they have the freedom and opportunity to play, learn, and grow. This initiative is about creating a collective responsibility to protect children and engender a future devoid of such preventable tragedies. Kiran’s message underscores the importance of awareness, education, and systemic support to help young mothers and prevent teenage pregnancies. With dedicated efforts and collective will, there is hope for creating a safer environment for the youth, safeguarding their innocence and future.
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