Investment in human resource development, in accordance with national policy, must be given priority in population and development strategies and budgets, at all levels in order to have a higher level of quality of life, social and economic development. Some of those youth that drop out of school demonstrate low levels of literacy for their age, and most, especially the males, never get into any form of skills training or other structured socialization system. Sexual and physical violence against women, as well as sexual abuse of young men and children, are increasing. Health and education standards face significant challenges, as structural adjustment programmes have led to a relative decline in expenditure in these areas. Sexual And Reproductive Health Sexual activity begins at an early age.
Some surveys suggest as early as eleven years old.
It is perhaps higher among the indigenous populations in the Caribbean. The number of children born to teen mothers is increasing. Post-abortion contraceptive counselling and services are generally not available to young people, even in countries where abortion is legal. Access To Reproductive Health Services For Young Persons Reproductive health services to the adolescent and youth population are restricted or encounter various legal, regulatory, institutional and service delivery barriers that limit access. It has yet to announce itself as being available to all sexually active citizens and more so, the young persons.