Mbarara District Health Officer, Dr. Peter Ssebutinde, has expressed concern over what he described as growing cases of indiscipline among school learners, warning that the trend is fueling risky sexual behaviour and increasing the spread of HIV/AIDS in the district.
Dr. Ssebutinde said his office has received worrying reports that some schools allow students to leave the premises during school time, a gap he says is being exploited by learners “particularly boys” who reportedly move into nearby trading centres, including Kijungu, where they seek sexual services from older women.
He noted that such behaviours not only expose the learners to HIV infection but also undermine ongoing public health efforts aimed at reducing new infections among young people.
The health officer further raised concern over certain entertainment and accommodation establishments, including one identified as “Memory,” which he alleged continues to operate despite being officially closed by authorities. He said these premises are reportedly being used in activities involving young girls in commercial sex work.
Dr. Ssebutinde called for stricter enforcement of school discipline policies and stronger coordination between education authorities, local leaders, and security agencies to curb the vice.
He emphasized that protecting learners from exploitation and risky behaviour remains critical in the fight against HIV/AIDS, urging schools to tighten supervision and prevent unauthorized movement of students during school hours.
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