Koketso Maraba
 
"Delayed pleasure is not denied pleasure. But, first things first. Your education must come first." These were the motherly words shared by Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness when addressing learners from various schools who attended the teenage pregnancy awareness session held at South Rand Hospital.
"Engaging in sexual activity at a young age can have severe consequences, both physically and emotionally, including socially and economically. It can lead to unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and disrupt your education. Therefore, you must understand the risks involved and to make informed decisions about your bodies and ultimately your futures.'' stated the MEC.
South Rand Hospital hosted local schools for the teenage pregnancy awareness programme on Saturday, 7 September 2024, where they had conversations with young girls about one of the key pressing issues affecting the youth and community, the issue of teenage pregnancy. A separate conversation session will also be coordinated focusing on young boys.
Due to the alarming yearly increase in the number of teenagers giving birth at health facilities, and the increase in termination of pregnancies among girls aged 10 to 19 years old, together with the peak of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across the five districts in the province, the Gauteng Department of Health is working with other stakeholders to address the social behavioural change by providing sexual and reproductive health education, health literacy programmes in communities, particularly in schools and higher learning centers, targeting adolescents and youth both in and out of school.
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko reminded the learners that true friends will never push you to engage in risky behaviors or make choices that can destroy your future. "Risky sexual behaviour and substance abuse are some of the areas where peer pressure can be hazardous," explained MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko. 
Nthabiseng Motshegwa from the Johannesburg District Health Services advised the learners to make use of the Adolescents Youth Friendly Service centres which offer comprehensive reproductive health advice to empower them to make informed decisions. These centers offer PrEP, PEP, contraceptives, morning-after pills, and psychology services to adolescents. 
An educator from The Hills High School, Bonolo Mashoai said she was grateful for the powerful session on teenage pregnancy and is certain her learners have understood the importance of abstinence and receiving quality healthcare. "These young girls have found a safe place to seek help when encountering these challenges," said Mashoai. 
Furthermore, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said the Department will be looking into empowering parents, caregivers guardians, and other influencers to engage in discussions about general child development, including sexuality, with children from an early age. Together with sister departments of Social Development and Basic Education and supporting partners, the Department will continue to work tirelessly to drive integrated programs to make a lasting impact on the lives of adolescents and youth in the province.
"I want to encourage you as learners to take care of yourselves and respect your bodies. When you engage in unprotected sex you put yourself at the risk of contracting STIs, HIV and even falling pregnant at a young age," said MEC.