Demand of comprehensive education on sexual and reproductive health

Kathmandu, March 8: The three tiers of government have been urged to launch programmes that cater comprehensive education on sexual and reproductive health to teenagers.     

The speakers at a programme reminded the government that comprehensive education on sexual and reproductive health would help reduce gender-based violence and drug use while increasing number of recipients of health services. Similarly education encourages society to wipe out discrimination.     

During a programme organized by the Nepal Family Planning Association with the financial assistance of Helvetas Nepal on the occasion of 114th International Women's Day, the adolescents attending the event urged the government not to deprive them of education on sexual and reproductive health.     

The slogan of the Day for this year is 'Invest in women: Accelerate progress.'     

The Helvetas Nepal has been running programmes on 'Promotion of youth engagement in local government' in Karnali and Madhes provinces for capacity building of adolescents.     

As per statistics available at Ministry of Health and Population, 37 per cent of adolescent girls get married before 18 years, while 10 per cent before 15 years.     

Association Chairman Himalaya Lal Kasajoo said the time has come for the government to launch massive programmes on sexual and reproductive health and rights.     

Similarly, Country Director of Helvetas Nepal, Dr Prabin Manandhar, said it was essential to augment investment for adolescents' health. (RSS)