Support HIV/AIDS Education in Ugandan Youth

PLANE Intensifies HIV and Teenage Pregnancy Campaign in Secondary Schools

PLATFORM for the NEEDY (PLANE) appreciates GlobalGiving for the opportunity to host our fundraising projects on its platform. We are also grateful to the donors and supporters who continue to stand with us. Although the project received no donations this quarter, PLANE remained committed to reaching young people with information and support.

During the quarter, PLANE intensified its school-based campaign to address HIV and teenage pregnancy among secondary school students. The team visited Kitumba, Kamengo, Kahinju, Bukuuku Seed, Kibiito and Rwimi secondary schools, working alongside Fort Portal City health officials and other local leaders.

The sessions covered HIV prevention, testing, early treatment, teenage pregnancy and the risks associated with unsafe sexual behaviour. PLANE Executive Director Steven Waddell said the campaign responds to concern about HIV prevalence in Fort Portal City, which he reported had risen from 14.1% to 16.7%, compared with a national prevalence of 5.9%. While new infections are declining, officials stressed that testing and early treatment remain essential to preventing further transmission.

The campaign also addressed teenage pregnancy, which remains a serious concern for school-going girls. Fort Portal City’s teenage pregnancy rate is estimated at about 15%, below the national rate of 25%. PLANE and city officials are addressing the issues together because the circumstances that can lead to early pregnancy may also increase young people’s vulnerability to HIV.

Students were encouraged to make informed decisions, protect their health and seek HIV testing. Officials also warned that some older men exploit girls’ financial hardship by offering money or gifts in exchange for sex. Such exploitation can expose girls to HIV and unintended pregnancy, and may force them to leave school, limiting their future opportunities. The City Secretary for Gender, Health and Education urged students to focus on their education and delay sexual activity.

School leaders highlighted the pressures some students face, including limited parental support and difficult household finances. Some learners balance school with work in hotels and bars, where they may be vulnerable to exploitation. One student said the sessions helped learners understand how HIV and teenage pregnancy can affect their education and future, and encouraged them to seek testing and make responsible choices.

PLANE will continue working with schools, families, health officials and communities to give young people accurate information, practical life skills and support. We respectfully invite GlobalGiving donors and supporters to help sustain and expand this work. Continued funding will enable PLANE to reach more students, strengthen prevention efforts and help young people build healthier, safer futures.

Report by:

Steven Waddell

Executive Director, PLANE

Links:

• PLANE website