Lack of Sex Education Contributing to Rising Teenage Pregnancy in Yei

 (YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Chairperson of the South Sudan Nurses and Midwifery Association (SSNAMA) Yei Chapter says lack of sex education is one of the major causes of early and teenage pregnancy in the area.

Speaking on Sunday during Access Radio’s  “Our Health,” Civic education program, Emmanuel Tedrige Uriah said many parents are failing to educate their children about sexual health, leading to an increase in teenage pregnancies recorded in health facilities.

Tedrige explained that when young people are not informed about the consequences of early sexual activity, they are more likely to engage in it, resulting in unintended pregnancies.

He also cited drug abuse among minors as another contributing factor, saying substance use can increase risky behavior among young people.

“Lack of sex education is one of the main causes of teenage pregnancy. Many parents do not talk to their children about the consequences of early sexual activity. This makes it difficult for young people to understand the risks, and some end up becoming pregnant at an early age.”

Tedrige called on parents, the government, and development partners to promote sex education in schools, families, and churches to help reduce cases of early pregnancy.

He emphasized that sex education should not be considered a taboo, but rather a preventive measure to protect young people from health and social challenges.

The remarks come amid reports of increasing cases of teenage pregnancy among school-going girls in Yei Town.