The World Population Day is an annual event observed on the 11 July globally. Every year the United Nations provides the theme to be celebrated and this year's theme “Family Planning: Empowering People, Developing Nations”. The celebration was held at Green Point High School with the vulnerable young people in that area.
The theme focused on empowerment of young people (teenage boys and girls). The Premier Mme Sylvia Lucas, MEC Gift van Staden and HOD Hendrina Samson celebrated the day young people.
The Premier celebrated the World Population Day with 300 vulnerable Young people between ages of 12 - 18 years (200 girls and 100 boys).
In her remarks Premier Lucas cited the challenges faced by the Young people in Greenpoint as unemployment, substance and alcohol abuse, street children and child neglect. She specifically raise a concern about teenage girls who become mothers at a very early age. “Another problem that is serious cause for concern is the issue of young girls getting pregnant. It not only affects your current circumstances and your future, but also the future of the baby that you did not plan for. You see daily how young girls are suffering and should learn from these examples.
The first and most important priority is you and your future. There is no place for a baby. And it's not just to the young girls I’m speak with, but also the boys because a girl does not get pregnant by herself. 'An unplanned baby is also the responsibility of the young father. If you are still in school there is no way that you can give a healthy and steadfast home and education to that child. It starts with mutual respect for each other. A young girl must respect and preserve herself and her body. Likewise, a boy must show respect for a girl and appreciate her.”
Premier Lucas emphasised the importance of Education and encouraged young people to concentrate on their schooling and stop engaging abstain from sex as it will only destroy their future. “Education is key. Do not underestimate the power of a good education. Going to school every day with your big books, dealing with the pressure of Homework and Projects, faced with emotional ups and downs of seeing (and not seeing) your crushes, can sometimes feel like the worst years of your life. But remember this, my dear young ones: these years are the best time to expand your minds and prepare you for the rest of your life.
All knowledge stored in your mental hard drive will help you become a cooler version of yourself. Study hard. Listen to your teachers well. Strive for excellence in all that you do. Make this time count!”
Young people were also encouraged to ensure that they make best decisions as they are the future of the Nation.
The day unfolded with all sector departments providing awareness to young people about the services rendered to youth in different departments.
The Department of Health, Ms Xoliswa Lute from Adolescent Reproductive Health unit spoke about the methods available to young people to avoid teenage pregnancy, STI & HIV and AIDS and contraceptive use.
There was a play by young people from Greenpoint that addressed issues concerning young people and the importance of parents having an open relationship with their children.
The day ended with the Premier Lucas and MEC van Staden handing over the care packs to young people. The care packs were provided by Social Welfare, Families, ECD and Children. The care packs included the toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, washing soap and cloth, Vaseline, sanitary towels for girls and shaving stick for boys).
The Department also provided soup, fruit and water to young people.
