On curbing teenage pregnancy

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I WOULD like to share my views with you concerning teenage pregnancy in our society. Evidence of its occurrence is too rampant in my parish in general and my community in particular. Surely, this seemingly escalating rate in teenage pregnancies among my peers is not likely to help in the progressive development of my community, parish or country. Consequently, concrete steps should be taken to arrest this trend urgently.

For one thing, we need to make a concerted effort in our schools and homes to educate young girls about the disadvantages of teenage pregnancy. Secondly, the young and old males alike should be educated through clubs and organised community meetings about the consequences of taking an active part in the creation of teenage pregnancies. Thirdly, feminist and non-feminist groups should actively promote anti-pregnancy clubs among teenagers in order to heighten awareness of possible dangers, and at the same time help them develop the necessary self-esteem.

The foregoing strategies, if implemented urgently, could stem the tide of teenage pregnancy in our communities. Eventually, when such a tide is stemmed, there will be a reduction in the number of unwanted pregnancies, abandoned and neglected children in our midst. At the same time, too, our female teenagers will be afforded adequate time to develop into educated and innovative persons who will be mature role models for their future off-springs.

I am, etc.,

GAIL WALTERS

Ocho Rios P.O.,

St. Ann

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