Kumasi, Aug 10, GNA - Teachers and school authorities have been urged to intensify the formation of virgins and abstinence clubs in schools as a means of stemming the spread of HIV/AIDS and sexual promiscuity.

Madam Elizabeth Sarfo-Adu, Senior Nursing Officer, public health at the Kumasi South Hospital, explained that although sex education was being taught in schools, the forming of the virgins and abstinence clubs will help throw more light on sex issues and other immoral acts which the children were supposed to know.

She was delivering a talk on the topic, "The Role of the Teacher in the Proper Upbringing of the Girl-Child" at the Kyirapatre Catholic primary and Metropolitan Assembly Junior Secondary Schools Virgins and Abstinence Club in Kumasi.

Madam Sarfo-Adu called for the reactivation of all counselling units in schools to assist the pupils with their problems since many children find it difficult to share their problems with their parents but prefer to interact with their counselling teachers and peers. Mr Felix Baidoo, founder of the club, said about 250 girls between the ages of 10 and 16 had registered with the club and that those who were sexually active were being counselled to keep their virginity till marriage.

He asked parents to visit the schools of their children and wards regularly to interact with the teachers about the progress of their children at school.

Mr. Dwamena Dapaah, Assistant Headteacher of the JSS, who chaired the function, pledged support for the sustenance of the club and appealed to the girls to concentrate on their studies, which held the key to their future.