Government propose to distribute condoms at primary school

The policy proposes the distribution of condoms to primary schools as one of the proposed ways to fight against the spread of HIV and STIs as well as pregnancy in schools.

Minister of Bsiac Education Angie Motshekga drafted the Basic Education National Policy on HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections and TB in response to the increased number of learners orphaned by HIV and STIs and the rate of teenage pregnancy in schools.

However, citizens have different views about the newly proposed policy.

KwaThema resident Sibongile Mabena (45), who is a mother to a 10-year-old girl, believes the distribution of condoms in primary schools will encourage children to be sexually active.

“When they get the condoms, they will be curious and want to use them,” says Mabena.

She advises the government to rather use the money to buy more textbooks and start learning programs which will help improve the pass rate of children at primary schools.

Nkosinathi Mbhele (52) says he is happy about the proposed policy.

He says the supply of condoms to primary school learners will help them know how to use a condom and protect them from getting pregnant at an early age.

“If children are taught at an early age about the importance of using condoms, they will grow up to be responsible adults who will make better decisions in the future,” concludes Mbhele.

Interested citizens and organisations can email their comments to drafthivpolicy@dbe.gov.za

Alternatively, send a fax to 012 328 8401 or post your comments to the Acting Director-General, Department of Basic Education, Private Bag X895, Pretoria, 0001.