Paul Chipeta Advocates for Enhanced SRHR Support in Colleges

At just 22, Paul Chipeta, a student at Domasi College of Education in Zomba, Malawi, highlights a pressing issue affecting his peers: inadequate access to comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services. This issue, he argues, demands immediate attention and action from both governmental and non-governmental organizations to ensure that students receive the essential health services they require to succeed academically and socially.

Chipeta points out the limitations of existing school health services. "As students, we do have a school clinic," he states, "but it’s not enough for the entire college population. Sometimes, students go without essential services like contraceptives or proper counseling." This scarcity of resources has dire consequences. Chipeta has witnessed classmates face unplanned pregnancies, resulting in significant disruptions to their education. He recalls the story of a close friend who became pregnant last semester, forcing her to take exams separately and ultimately return home to care for her child.

The implications of inadequate SRHR services extend beyond individual cases, affecting the educational outcomes of students and the overall health of the community. According to the World Health Organization, young people are particularly vulnerable to sexual and reproductive health issues, which can lead to long-term health consequences and economic burdens on society (WHO, 2022).

In light of these challenges, Chipeta advocates for increased investment in SRHR services within tertiary institutions. He believes that colleges require more resources and specialized expertise than governmental bodies can provide alone. "We need more partners to step in," he insists. "Organizations that understand SRHR and can help bring these services closer to us consistently and with enough capacity."

Experts in the field echo Chipeta's sentiments. Dr. Linda Nyoni, a public health expert at the University of Malawi, emphasizes that comprehensive SRHR services are critical for empowering youth. "Investing in the health and well-being of young people is an investment in the future of our nation," she states. "When students have access to the care they need, they are more likely to stay in school and complete their education."

Furthermore, a 2023 report from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) highlights that improving SRHR services can significantly decrease rates of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections among youth, further supporting Chipeta's call for action (UNFPA, 2023).

The need for targeted advocacy and support is urgent. The PMNCH (Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health) has recognized the importance of addressing SRHR issues within educational institutions. In a recent report, PMNCH outlined strategies for improving access to health services for adolescents and youth, emphasizing the role of collaborative partnerships in addressing these critical needs (PMNCH, 2025).

As the conversation around SRHR evolves, it is clear that students like Paul Chipeta are at the forefront of advocating for change. Their voices underscore the necessity for comprehensive health services that not only promote well-being but also empower young people to pursue their education without unnecessary interruptions.

In conclusion, the call for better SRHR support in colleges reflects a broader societal responsibility to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to thrive. As Chipeta poignantly states, "If we want to see a generation of educated, empowered youth, we must invest in their well-being first." The future of education and health for many young individuals may depend on the actions taken today.