The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (MCFSP at KNUST) has organised a health talk on ‘Curbing Unintended Pregnancies and Loose Sexual Life’ for its Scholars on Saturday, 29th July 2023 at the Social Science Auditorium, KNUST.
In his welcome address, Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen K. Jantuah, the Chief Counsellor at MCFSP at KNUST, highlighted the Counselling Unit's focus on addressing pertinent issues to help the scholars build a better future. He added that, his Office observed that some scholars faced challenges related to reproductive health, hence, the need to intensify education on reproductive health and healthy sexual lifestyle and provide them with appropriate support. He encouraged the scholars to apply the knowledge they would gain from the talk to make informed decisions about their sexual lives and academic pursuits.
Presenting on the topic, Mr. Rabbi Darko, a Counselling Psychologist at the KNUST Counselling Centre, stressed the importance of striking a balance between academics and social life. He said that a healthy sexual lifestyle requires positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships which involves having a pleasurable and safe sexual experience free of coercion and violence.
Mr. Darko also highlighted some examples of sexual behaviours, misconceptions about sex, and reasons behind engaging in sexual activities. He identified causes of a loose sexual lifestyles to include low educational ambitions and goals, childhood sexual abuse, lack of social support, alcohol and social media use, peer influence, and cohabitation with a partner. According to him, sexually transmitted diseases, unintended pregnancies, complications of abortion, legal consequences and feeling of guilt are some of the effects of loose sexual lifestyles on individuals.
To handle and avoid loose sexual life and unintended pregnancies, Mr. Darko recommended strategies such as abstinence, surrounding oneself with friends who respect and care about one's sexual beliefs, understanding personal boundaries, and being firm and direct.
Mrs. Faustina Asantewaa Saahene, the Santasi Centre Manager for Marie Stopes, contributed to the discussion and stated some of the reasons why people engage in early sexual activity to include; pleasure, showing love, pleasing a partner, and making money. She stressed the importance of abstinence, the use of contraceptives, learning to say NO, and avoiding unprotected sex as effective ways to prevent unintended pregnancies and maintain a responsible sexual lifestyle. She advised the scholars to prioritise their studies and stay focused.
