Students champion Srh, Sgbv mentorships

Students at Iponga Community Day Secondary School in Karonga have highlighted the vital role of mentoring students in matters of Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH) and Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), emphasizing its role in empowering female students to unlock their full educational potential.

The call was made over the weekend at the conclusion of a two-day mentorship programme that Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organization facilitated, that was focused on SRH, SGBV referral systems, and self-space management, drawing participation of 30 female students from the school.

In an Interview, one of the female students who participated in the mentorship Chimwemwe Gondwe, stressed that such initiatives are crucial for empowering young women to realize their complete educational potential and navigate these critical aspects of their lives.

“As female students we face a lot of challenges in attempting to realize our educational aspirations hence we need more mentorship programmes to build our resilience and empowerment, she said.
On her part District Gender and Development Officer for Karonga Ireen Mwenelupembe, emphasized that the mentorship program came at a crucial juncture, especially as Malawi is observing 16 days of Gender activism against gender based violence.

She noted that the training is timely, contributing to a broader effort in fostering awareness and empowerment among young women at Iponga.

“This timely mentorship program is a catalyst for empowering young minds on sexual reproductive health and gender-based violence, paving the way for a more enlightened and resilient generation,” Mwenelupembe explained.

Meanwhile, Programmes Manager for Pamoza Tingakwaniska Gomezgani Mhango, said they decided to build the capacity of female students, noting its significance, especially given the school’s proximity to the Songwe border with Tanzania.

highlighting how such initiatives contribute to the holistic development and well-being of students in the cross-border communities surrounding the school.

With financial support from UNFPAMalawi through foundation for civic education and social employment, Pamoza Tingakwaniska Youth Organization is implementing the Strengthening Malawis Peace Infrastructure and sustaining peace in borderland districts project in T/A Mwakaboko in Karonga.