Dokolo, Uganda | Students in Dokolo District have been urged to avoid risky behaviours that could undermine their education, health and future prospects as part of efforts to promote responsible decision-making among young people.
The call was made during a student mentorship session at Adwoki High School and Adwoki Technical School in Agwata Sub-county, organised by the Platform for Community Empowerment (PLACE) in partnership with Dokolo District Local Government.
The engagement focused on equipping learners with life skills, promoting risk awareness and encouraging choices that support their personal and academic growth.
PLACE Executive Director Franchise Osika cautioned students against practices such as drug abuse, alcoholism, early sexual relationships and other behaviours he said could derail their future.
Osika particularly warned learners against relationships involving older partners commonly referred to as “sugar daddies” and “sugar mummies”, saying such relationships often expose young people to exploitation, health risks and loss of educational opportunities.
He encouraged students, especially girls, to prioritise their education and avoid activities that could compromise their ambitions.
The students were also advised to use social media responsibly, with Osika warning against misuse of platforms such as TikTok and behaviours that could damage their reputation.
A Community Liaison Officer, Moses Ogwal, urged learners to remain disciplined, avoid night clubbing and abstain from sexual activity while in school to reduce cases of teenage pregnancy, early marriage and school dropout.
Medical practitioner Dr Ambrose Ogwang, popularly known as Awitong, sensitised students on sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B and syphilis, emphasising the importance of protecting their health through responsible choices.
The Director of Adwoki Schools, Rev. Sam Omiat, commended PLACE and Dokolo District Local Government for investing in youth mentorship and urged students to remain focused on their studies and future goals.
The mentorship programme is part of PLACE’s wider initiative aimed at strengthening resilience among young people and helping learners make informed decisions that positively shape their future.
