KHOTANG, May 27: In order to discourage children from getting married before the eligible age, an awareness program related to child marriage and reproduction was organized in Kharmi of Khotang on Thursday and Friday.
A total of 60 students from grade 9 and 10 participated in the interaction. The program was initiated by Ajambari Child Forum in coordination with the ward office after finding out that many students tie the nuptial knot before reaching the eligible age and before the completion of their studies. During the interaction, students were informed about the negative impacts of early marriage on the |mother's and infant's health, according to Ward Secretary Chitra Subedi.
Child labour, child marriage still rife in Dang
Besides that, girls were taught about menstrual hygiene. They were informed about the measures that they should adopt to keep themselves clean and healthy during their periods. Not only the students but also the teachers participated in the interaction so that they can impart the knowledge to other students as well.
A recent survey conducted by the District Public Health Office (DPHO) in 15 wards of Khotang has found that around 30% youths get married before reaching 20.
Lack of parental guidance, freedom, misuse of technology, low grades or failures in school among others have been found as the reasons behind early marriage.
