GPF assisting teenage mothers to complete school

Two teenage mothers from Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) are being given the opportunity to complete their secondary education through the intervention of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

The initiative forms part of the force’s effort to build relationships with civilians.

This was disclosed by Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Kurleigh Simon on the weekly programme ‘Police and You’ on Tuesday.

Superintendent Simon said about four teenage pregnancies are reported monthly in the region.

“One recently gave birth, so we are giving her some time. In the break of 2022, we are going to have her registered and re-enrolled into school and we are going to take care of whatever school expense she has,” he said.

“The other one, she is pregnant. So, we do not want to force the issue too much of going through pregnancy and studying, so we have her on record to render assistance,” the commander stated.

Senior Superintendent Simon said while teenage pregnancy is becoming worrisome, steps are being put in place to tackle the issue head-on.

“I have reached out to the probation welfare officer and we are in the process of formulating a strategy to counter that, by going to the schools to address the issue early in the new year.”

The region has also formed a number of youth groups even with the limitations of COVID-19. Talks are also ongoing to re-establish a scout group in Mahaicony.

Superintendent Simon said those are ways to not only keep young people gainfully occupied, but to also curb criminal activities in the region.