Apart from low self-esteem and lack of discipline, pupils engaging in sexual activities, especially in rural schools, is a cause for concern as it could hinder them from progressing in life.
This prompted Vinomaandero Murirua through his Step-By-Step Knowledge Organisation to make visits to rural schools and engage pupils about these topics, while also discussing other key elements needed for a successful educational journey.
“Pupils engaging in sexual activities is seen as an okay thing and has been normalised, even by society, and that will be our focus,” a concerned Murirua told Youth Corner.
Supported by the National Youth Council, Step-By-Step was formed on 29 April 2015 and aims to instil discipline in learners that would ultimately ensure they succeed in life.
“Through this programme, we stay at the school for a week and also host parents meetings. We cannot enlighten learners on the importance of discipline if we can’t have a conversation with the ones who raise them,” he noted.
According to Murirua, they have observed that apart from pupils losing focus, mentorship and guidance is also missing, adding that they are lacking motivation and many don’t have anyone to look up to.
Alcohol and drug abuse is also rife, he said.
Murirua stated that they also do talent searches, as some learners are talented, either artistically or in a sporty way, and want these potentials to be unleashed so that they can focus on things that build them instead of being mischievous.
“The biggest problems we have noticed in these learners is they are not in tune with life and not focused with their education; they are not ambitious. They don’t know how to behave and sometimes they don’t value themselves,” he noted.
To address these issues, known leaders of society and experts in their fields are invited to offer either counselling or mentorship, said Murirua.
“I would invite the likes of Dr Mara Mberira (clinical psychologist), fellow young people from youth foundations to share their experiences, as well as members of parliament. Maybe when they see a member of parliament, their perceptions about life will change,” said.