A few years ago, an innocent girl who constantly complained about painful periods was wrongly advised by a boyfriend that the only way to overcome the pain was to have sex. Knowing little about the outcome of such a decision, she gave in with the hope of getting relief but instead became pregnant. 

In order to avoid such cases and raise awareness about reproductive health among the youth, Education Times has launched weekly Open discussions with students in order to expand their knowledge about reproductive health issues in education. 

This week, students of Essa Nyarugunga shared with us what they think about sex before marriage.

Ronald Kayisinga, Senior FiveI have had sex before although I have resolved to stay away from it until the right time. I noticed one can comfortably survive without sex. Nowadays I keep myself busy with books and sports to avoid getting any funny ideas. Besides, having sex carelessly could easily cause sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

Charlotte Nigihozo, 23, Senior FiveIt is bad to have sex while you are still young because it can ruin your future. I always keep away from people who want to meet me in the dark but spend much time with members of our church to fight temptation.

Innocent Kakara, Senior FiveI have had sex twice but in both cases I were drunk. However, I have since resolved to abstain from sex and stop drinking afterall I am a Christian and still young. I prefer to spend my free time playing volley ball so that I am not tempted to engage in sexual actvities again until I have married. 

Agnes Mbabazi, Senior FiveHaving sex before marriage is wrong and that is why I have abstained all my life even when I have a boyfriend. My secret has been in staying away from crazy boys whom I think might be bad company. But that does not mean that I don’t interact with boys. I also mind the movies I watch and the clothes I wear.

Steven Ibereho, Senior FiveI have had sex three times in my life but used condoms on all the occasions. However, I do not plan to have sex again till my wedding night. I don’t know what I would have done if I had for instance impregnated those girls. 

Arnold Gatete, Senior FiveI have not had sex before but I have ever kissed a girl. I don’t believe in sex before marriage. To avoid temptations, I spend my free time chatting with friends on Facebook and Watsapp, watching movies and sports. 

Sereneilla Mutivo, Senior One I am curious to find out what happens during sexual intercourse but I will only do that at the right time. After starting my periods, I started feeling strange towards the opposite sex. I don’t feel very free with most boys yet I’m free with everyone else.