Africa-Press – Eswatini. Career guidance teachers from across the Hhohho region teamed up with Ministry of Health nurses at Mater Dolorosa Primary School for a training session not for exams or grades, but to strengthen HPV awareness and ensure pupils get the protection they need.
The engagement brought together education and health stakeholders to address growing concern over low HPV vaccine uptake, particularly among school-going children. Regional Education Office (REO) representative Sibonisile Sacolo highlighted the urgency of scaling up awareness campaigns, noting that prevention remains the most effective tool in the fight against cervical cancer.
“We have observed that the percentage of HPV vaccination is still low, but we are hopeful that through awareness such as this, more emaSwati will understand its importance and take action,” cited Sibonisile Sacolo.
Sacolo also referenced remarks by Mswati III, who underscored the importance of vaccines during his Speech from the Throne, reinforcing national commitment to preventative healthcare. She stressed that while the vaccine may appear costly, it is far less expensive than cancer treatment and offers long term protection, particularly for children aged between 9 and 15.
Health officials at the meeting echoed similar sentiments, urging early vaccination as a critical safeguard. Nurse Thuli Magagula reassured attendees about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, citing its widespread global use.
“The HPV vaccine is safe and has been used for many years across the world, with over 100 million people vaccinated. It is one of the strongest tools we have to prevent cervical cancer,” she said.
Her colleague, Busisiwe Gama, further educated teachers on risk factors associated with HPV, including multiple sexual partners, smoking, second hand smoke exposure, and lifestyle choices. She emphasised the importance of informed decision-making among young people.
Globally, HPV remains one of the leading causes of cervical cancer, a disease that continues to affect thousands of women annually, particularly in developing countries. In Africa, countries such as Zimbabwe, Lesotho, South Africa, and Kenya have already integrated HPV vaccination into national immunisation programmes, demonstrating its growing acceptance and impact.
The Hhohho initiative signals a proactive step towards equipping educators with knowledge that can be passed on to learners, ultimately strengthening community awareness and reducing future health risks.
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