School teachers enrolled in a counselling course simulate a counselling session. Mr Berty Anderson, project officer for Colombo District, says he has met a few principals who were sceptical about teaching reproductive health, but says students have been very eager to take part. From time to time programmes are held for parents to make them aware of the subject matter and the need for parental responsibility and sensitivity towards adolescent children. We are happy this void is being filled, and in the right way. The youngsters look at how to tell others about reproductive health and how to lead activities for their peers and younger children.
Camps tend to be single sex, but the mixed sex approach has been successful too.
I think this is vital in a pluralistic society like ours, especially in view of the present conflict. Girls who are very beauty conscious approach me about being overweight or being too thin. I dissuade them from dieting and tell them to concentrate on their studies. If they are lean, I point out how easy it is for them to play and move around freely and swiftly. I always advise them to think of their future goals and that these are not issues that should take up their time.