​Qaqambile Mdledle
In an effort to curb teenage pregnancies in the province, the Gauteng Department of Social Development will intensify the campaign to educate learners on the implications of pregnancy.
The Gauteng health department recorded more than 23 000 teenage pregnancies between April 2020 and March 2021, with 934 girls between the ages of 10 and 14 giving birth. 
MEC of Gauteng Department of Social Development, Morakane Mosupyoe said teenage pregnancy impacts negatively on educational opportunities for young girls, especially those without the proper support and help, and they are less likely to finish high school.
Both boys' and girls' must be taught about the responsibility of abstinence so that they can make informed choices, the MEC said.
"This will be a joint programme that will look at the cause and how do we address it. We will talk to both the boys and girls. We must help our children to make informed health choices earlier on in life. We have a responsibility to guide them."
Mosupyoe was speaking during her visit to the West Rand Region schools to conduct oversight on the first day of learning. 
She visited the Mosupatsela Secondary School in Kagiso, Boipelo Secondary School and the Tswelelopele Educare Centre where she distributed 250 dignity packs to learners of Boipelo Secondary School which will ensure that no child misses' school because of basic needs.
"Understanding the socio-economic imperatives in this area it's critical that interventions like these are made. These usually go a long way in shaping and moulding the child. 
"Dignity packs alone create huge confidence to a child, and they know they can tackle their studies without the shame that goes with their appearance. It's also good to mould them while they are still young."
Among other services, Mosupyoe said her department will offer school uniforms to learners in need, family mediation services, substance abuse programmes, school social work and psychosocial support.
"This is one school out of very many with the need in this area. There are huge amounts of child-headed households where parents are working and have nowhere to leave their children."
The MEC concluded her day by donating food packs, books and toys at Tswelelopele Educare Centre.