For responsible sexuality

In recent years, both in our country and in neighbouring countries, there has been a decline in safe sex practices among young people.

In its programme for the 2004-2009 legislative period, the current government announced free access to contraceptives for young people in all secondary schools.

To achieve this objective in the interests of responsible sexuality, close collaboration has been established between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training, and post-primary schools.

Installation of condom dispensers

Low-cost condoms (20 pence for a pack of four) have been available in all secondary schools and technical colleges since the start of the new school year.

This measure aims to promote sexual and emotional health among young adolescents in schools.

Information and awareness campaign

The Service for the Coordination of Educational and Technological Research and Innovation (SCRIPT) has planned the following activities in cooperation with the Red Cross AIDS Advisory Service and the School Medicine Division:

• Information sessions for 7th and 8th grade classes.
  The sessions can be organised according to the needs of the schools. In order to offer a focused campaign tailored to different classes, Aidsberodung officials have developed model courses.
  
  
• Continuing education for staff.
  Two training sessions were held in January and March 2006 for SPOS staff (qualified educators, social workers) and staff from the School Medical Division.