Govt plans circumcision school camps

 

The Government is studying ways under which it will set up circumcision camps or clinics in schools for boys who are willing to be circumcised.

 

Education ministry’s permanent secretary Francis Xavier Lubanga told New Vision that when arrangements are done, the ministry will send circulars to all schools in the country about the issue.

 

“Schools will also be instructed to communicate to the parents on how the programme will be conducted.

 

For children below the age of consent, written consent of the parents will be required,” Lubanga explained.

 

He also said the education ministry would partner with the health ministry. Citing an incident where 13 students of Teso College Aloet, were recently suspended after they sneaked out of school to get circumcised, Lubanga said the number of students in need of circumcision across the country may be high.

 

Lubanga, however, said the students must go through a proper counseling session to advise them on the care, treatment, risks and benefits before they get circumcised.

 

“Circumcision should be done in an organised, systematic and clear manner.

 

That is why we will soon come out with the details on how this will be handled,” he explained. Research has proved that male circumcision can protect one against acquiring HIV. Health experts say it must be used alongside other protective measures.