30 Jul 2017

Parents who underwent an effective parenting programme in Maun have commended the programme.

The effective parenting programme was organised by Women Against Rape (WAR), a non-governmental organisation based in Maun and supported by the US Embassy through PEPFAR at the tune of $19, 350 to bridge the gap between parents and their children.

About 177 women from four wards in Maun benefited from the programme.

The parents’ graduation ceremony was graced by US Ambassador, Mr Earl Miller who appreciated the parents and children who had successfully completed the programme.

The programme, he said, moulded adolescents into responsible young adults and nurtured strong families and caring communities.

Ambassador Miller said WAR was an important partner of the US Embassy and commended the facilitators for a great job.

A parent, Ms Bontle Radipitse appreciated the programme which sensitised parents about the importance of communication and challenges of parenting.

Another parent, Ms Oaitse Ndiane said the programme was commendable as it taught them the value of parent-child age appropriate messages, and that consulting children in decisions affecting them was crucial.

Ms Ndiane said it would be more rewarding if the training could be spread across the village as some women missed out.
WAR official, Mr Gabalape Tauejele said PEPFAR has been supporting WAR on issues of parent-child-communication for many years.

The programme, he said, sensitised parents on their roles and legal rights as parents, while children were educated on their rights and responsibilities.

He said the programme enhanced communication skills between parents and their adolescents’ children which would help in addressing issues of safe sexual relationships, prevention of teenage pregnancy and sexual transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS which were worrisome in Ngamiland District.

He also said the programme managed to revive child protection committees at wards level which assisted in dealing with issues affecting children at ward level and enhanced the spirit of a child belonging to all in a community. ENDS