Young people urged to abstain and focus on their dreams this holiday

5 May 2025, 11:03 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

On 2nd May 2025, the first term for nursery, primary, and secondary school learners officially ended, marking the beginning of the holiday period. According to the Ministry of Education and Sports calendar, Term Two is scheduled to commence on 26th May 2025.

During school holidays, many learners face challenges, including the temptation to engage in risky behaviours such as sexual activity. Some of these temptations are driven by financial difficulties, where learners—particularly girls—seek money but lack access to productive opportunities. This sometimes leads them to exchange sex for money, often without considering the consequences.

In response, Tiger FM spoke with various individuals, including learners, to explore why some students engage in sexual activity and what can be done to prevent it.

Before delving into opinions, it’s important to understand what sexual abstinence means. Research defines abstinence as the choice not to engage in any form of sexual activity—vaginal, oral, or anal. However, many people interpret it more narrowly as avoiding vaginal intercourse only.

Dr. Sebbowa Hasan, a medical practitioner based in Kampala, highlighted the importance of abstinence among young people.

“I know some school-going children are sexually active. What they are doing is not only wrong but also a sin. We sometimes get criticised for addressing these matters, but the reality cannot be ignored. Young people should abstain from sex. Firstly, it’s healthy and the only guaranteed way to prevent pregnancy. I don’t believe any student wants to become a parent before completing their education. Secondly, abstinence allows students to focus on their dreams. When I was growing up, I wanted to be a doctor. I knew the dos and don’ts required to reach that goal—and abstaining was one of them. It may be difficult, but it is possible with determination and the help of God. Lastly, abstinence prevents sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV and Mpox,” he said.

Dr. Sebbowa also explained the different types of abstinence:

• Primary abstinence: when someone has never engaged in sexual activity.
• Secondary abstinence: when someone who was previously sexually active chooses to stop for a period.
• Recent abstinence: when someone has been sexually active within the last 12 months but is currently not.
• Celibacy: a long-term or permanent commitment to abstaining from sex, often for religious or philosophical reasons.

He concluded by urging students to focus on productive activities during the holidays—reading, household chores, and sports. He also advised parents to monitor their children’s behaviour, including checking their phones if necessary. “If you don’t act now, you’ll regret it later,” he warned.

Bena Nekesa, a communications student at Uganda Christian University, highlighted the family’s role in shaping moral values.

“While social media, peer pressure, and popular culture are often blamed, the truth is that the family plays a central role in shaping a child’s character. Children absorb values—both good and bad—from their home environments. As Proverbs 22:6 says, ‘Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.’ This shows the power of early moral guidance,” she explained.

Nekesa added that while families lay the moral foundation, personal responsibility also matters. Children from troubled homes can still seek positive role models such as mentors or religious leaders. Parents who lead by example—with integrity, self-control, and love—have a strong influence on their children’s development.

While most people interviewed agreed that abstinence is the best approach, a significant number also supported monogamous relationships for people aged 20 and above. Even so, they advised learners in that age group to prioritise their education until marriage.

Health experts warn that sexual activity among minors (under 18) is particularly harmful. A recent report from the Uganda AIDS Commission revealed a rise in HIV infections among young people aged 14 to 25. The report emphasised the importance of abstinence and consistent condom use.