Introduction

It is no longer news that a poorly informed and sensitized youth often fall prey to dangerous vices such as illicit sex and drug abuse, which they would otherwise have avoided if better informed. This is particularly the case for our in-school youths who by reason of their grouping with other children and youths from different backgrounds often face negative peer group pressure on a regular basis. Programmes championing ‘abstinence’ as the best and healthiest choice for young people with regard to issues of HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse are currently on all over the world. Countries like the United States of America, the United Kingdom and even Uganda have for long commenced vigorous Abstinence Programmes for their in-school youths in collaboration with Non-governmental Organizations. We cannot be left behind. Young people are getting infected daily because the gravity and grievousness of the HIV/AIDS scourge is being watered down by insufficient sensitization and irresponsible condom promotions. There is therefore the need for special programmes such as the ABSTINENCE CAMPAIGN PROGRAMME (A.C.P) targeting in-school youths, for greater effectiveness in the fight against HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse.

A.) The HIV/AIDS & Drug Awareness Schools Competitions (HADASC)

The HADASC shall be conducted annually for secondary and tertiary school students and shall involve the use of Subjective Type Exams, Objective Type Exams and Oral Quiz Competitions to test the knowledge of students in the field of HIV/AIDS and Drug Abuse.

B. Abstinence Clubs
Abstinence Clubs shall be set up in all secondary schools and shall be supervised by a teacher or the school guidance counselor.
Activities of the club shall include organizing the following: 1. HIV/AIDS and Drug Awareness quizzes
2. Abstinence Forum (Supervised Discussions)
3. Video shows on abstinence, HIV/AIDS, drug use & abuse
4. Debates and short drama presentations
5. Abstinence Pledge Ceremonies
6. Abstinence Appreciation Day
7. Motivational Speaker Presentations
We shall collaborate with HIV/AIDS Clubs in whichever schools we find them in the implementation of the above activities.

C. Abstinence Appreciation Day / Pledge Card Day
The Abstinence Appreciation Day shall be observed annually in all secondary schools and shall be a day of poster campaigns, charitable acts/ fundraising to support persons living with HIV/AIDS, speeches, poetry, short dramas, Abstinence Oath-Taking/Pledges and Pledge Card Issuance, etc.

D. Abstinence Seminars/Workshops
Abstinence seminars/workshops shall be held annually in all educational zones for Principals of schools, Guidance Counselors, Selected Teachers and Abstinence Club delegates.
Seminar Topics shall include:
1. Sexuality, Life Values and Abstinence
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS
3. The Youth and Drug Abuse
4. Life Skills (Personal Goal Setting Skills, Decision Making Skills, Assertiveness Skills and Refusal Skills)

E. Positive Talents Exhibition The Positive Talents Exhibition shall be held once a year and its aim shall be to promote self-discovery and help build a sense of self-worth and self-esteem in young people thereby helping them to shun self-destructive actions. It shall also encourage in-school youths (secondary / tertiary) to seek, discover and develop their inherent talents and unique abilities.

Conclusion

The ABSTINENCE CAMPAIGN PROGRAMME (A.C.P) is a programme destined for a time like this. A time wherein many young people have become complacent about HIV/AIDS and face on a daily basis, negative external influences which rivet their minds on sexual activity and drug abuse. With your help and support, the ABSTINENCE CAMPAIGN PROGRAMME (A.C.P) of the Lifebuoy Youth Project (LIYOP) will reverse this situation and give our youths the knowledge and information which is critical for a good life and bright future.