Photo: Charles Akena/IRIN

A mother awaits treatment at a health centre (File photo)

Article Views (non — A month ago the United Nations World Health Organisation (WHO) representative in Namibia suggested that contraceptives be made available in schools. The Swapo Party of Namibia Youth League also suggested last year that condoms be distributed in schools. Youth Corner's Jemima Beukes spoke to Nawa Zone Production Manager, young writer and local blogger, Monica Morocky (22), about the use of contraceptives and their possible availability to school children.

Do you use contraceptives?

No, I have never used it before.

Then why do you want kids to use contraceptives if you have never used it before?

Maybe I am just really (contraceptivelly) challenged. (LOL) Ok well honestly, look at the percentage of pregnancies in schools. I think if these things are available in schools it will be easier for kids to get them.

Well, contraceptives are available at clinics and pharmacies why should it be taken to schools?

Well, kids are uncomfortable going to pharmacies and clinics to ask for these things because people still ask why they need these things.

Most of our parents are unaware about the fact that their kids have sex, and they don't know that their 15-year-olds are already having sex with other kids or older people if not younger. So if it is available at school then it is easy for the child and less embarrassing.

At what age do you think parents must begin to talk to their children about sex and birth control?

By the way things are going in Namibia . . . they need to start talking about it from the age of 16 if not 15. Honestly the matter is out of hand already, our children are having sex as young as 13 years old. Our parents need to open their eyes to reality and talk to their children about sex, and its consequences. Children must be educated on the save use of contraceptives. And think about it, if our parents talk to us about these things . . .. It will also decrease the rate of baby dumping.

Do you think children understand the issues surrounding pregnancies and contraceptives?

No, they do not that is why parents must talk to their children, they must make time for their children to avoid children making mistakes such as falling pregnant.