In a proactive effort to address the growing concern of teenage pregnancies, South Rand Hospital hosted a Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Day, aiming to educate local students and young girls on the profound consequences of early parenthood.
The event, which took place on September 7, brought together prominent figures, local schools and community members dedicated to combating this pressing issue.
The day aimed to educate learners from different schools and the community about the dangers of illegal abortions and sexual reproductive health.
The day began with a warm welcome from the hospital’s CEO, Simphiwe Gada, who expressed gratitude and honour for being able to host the initiative.
He said that they are deeply committed to combating teenage pregnancy and fighting back against illegal backstreet abortions which are claiming the lives of young girls.
“Today’s programme is a significant step towards equipping our young people with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their futures,” Gada said.
The highlight of the event was a compelling address by the Gauteng MEC of Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.
She spoke candidly about the multi-faceted impact of having a child at a young age, covering emotional, physical, financial, and social consequences.
“Teenage pregnancy can alter the course of a young person’s life in ways they might not fully understand. Peer pressure is one of the most common factors that contribute to teenage pregnancy so it’s essential to be aware of these impacts to make informed choices and seek support when needed,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said.
South Rand Hospital is a district hospital that supports at least over 16 local clinics based in Johannesburg south.
Officials from these clinics also joined the gathering to share and gain knowledge on the matter.
The session included an informative presentation from a representative of the Johannesburg Health District, Nthabiseng Motshegwa.
Motshegwa’s segment focused on the services provided by the Gauteng Health Department, with a particular emphasis on the Adolescent Youth Friendly Services.
Motshegwa detailed how these services are designed to offer comprehensive support and resources tailored to the needs of young people, aiming to promote their overall well-being and prevent unintended pregnancies and STIs.
The event also featured interactive Q&A sessions, allowing learners to engage directly with the speakers and ask questions about the topics discussed.
The hospital’s efforts were met with positive feedback from attendees, who appreciated the opportunity to learn about the real-world implications of teenage pregnancy and the support systems available to them.
The programme stands as a testament to the hospital’s dedication to fostering a more informed and empowered youth, ultimately working towards reducing teenage pregnancy rates and supporting the holistic development of young people in the community.
In conclusion, stakeholders advised the young girls to seek services that were emphasised by Motshegwa and stated that if staff from healthcare facilities have a hard time accessing these services, they must report them to the relevant departments.
