Recently, a study undertaken by the ELP has pointed out some disturbing trends concerning the sexual behaviour of students at Makerere University. This research portrays how many students are making negative choices on sexual behaviour largely out of fear and as a result of financial pressures.
According to Barbara Kaija who reported in New Vision, 53.7% of the freshmen students are making positive sexual choices while 46.3% are under pressures that result in negative decisions. The baseline survey also indicated that 37.8% of the freshmen students were virgins while 36.6% of the continuing students were still virgins or secondary virgins.
These findings were presented during the launch of the ELP at Makerere University, inaugurated by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni Kataaha. She urged students at the launch to resist the temptations of sexual immorality, substance abuse, and alcohol.
“Do not sacrifice your chance at education by focusing on short-term personal satisfaction at the expense of future opportunities and your career path,” Museveni underscored. She urged students to shun behaviors that would interrupt their academic life.
This is expected to expand into other higher institutions of learning as the extended campaign by Janet Museveni in fighting corruption and addressing public health concerns like HIV/AIDS. In this respect, it will equip students with knowledge and skills to help them make appropriate decisions about their health and their futures.
