A new computer-based sexual and reproductive health and human rights program for senior high school students has been launched in Merauke district in Papua province.

Titled Dunia Remajaku Seru (My Teenage World is Awesome); it was adapted from The World Starts With Me program, which was introduced in 2003 by the World Population Foundation (WPF), and Butterfly Works.

Prior to the launch, it was given a trial for six months in six Catholic, Protestant, and state-run senior high schools.

“This program combines the development of information technology skills and creative expressions of sexuality, and uses three approaches: teen growth, behavior change and human rights,” Sri Kusyunianti, the WPF’s country representative, said.

The program aims to boost awareness among young people not only through education but also through guidance, she said.

“Teenagers are the nation’s next generation. So producing smart, healthy and productive teenagers is our common goal.”

The initiative is to avoid early pregnancies, abortion, sexual abuse and HIV/AIDS cases involving teenagers in the district.

“A survey conducted in 2006 says many Papuans had sex for the first time before reaching 15,” she added.

Sacred Heart Father Apolinaris Miller Senduk, vicar general of Merauke archdiocese, welcomed the new program, calling it innovative, contextual and effective.

“By giving instruction on sexuality, students can better understand their body parts and their functions,” he added.

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