03 Mar 2016

Father Monnamongwe Letsatle of the Roman Catholic Church has advised Ditsweletse Community Junior Secondary School students to abstain from sex as it is the only measure that totally prevents the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Father Letsatle was speaking during the commemoration of the Commonwealth Month of Youth Against AIDS hosted for students.

He said abstinence means taking a vow to stay away from sex, and advised that with the strength of God, all things are possible. 

Another speaker at the event, Tawana Clinic nurse Ms Gaobotse Monnatlhare, told the students that abstinence is the most effective way to prevent HIV/AIDS, unwanted pregnancy and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

She told them to be clear on why they want to abstain and share their lifestyle with people who will support them. Ms Monnatlhare also advised student to be assertive. She urged them to resist sexual intercourse without feeling guilty.

Monica Mokaedi (14), a form four student, told her fellow students to resist peer pressure, rumours and myths surrounding abstinence.

She said that a student who abstains from sex does not stress about whether or not she has fallen pregnant or contracted HIV but rather directs his or her energy on to school work.

“Abstinence is the natural and easier method of prevention so be proud and share with your friends that you are abstaining. Abstinence does not kill but saves lives,” she said.

The day started off with a candle light ceremony in remembrance of the youth who have died as a result of AIDS. Drama, music and poetry were also used to pass positive messages to the students. Ends