"We Deserve Better": Paul’s Call for Stronger SRHR Support in Colleges

At Domasi College of Education in Zomba under Traditional Authority Malemia, 22-year-old Paul Chipeta sees a silent crisis unfolding among his peers: limited access to comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services. 

“As students, we do have a school clinic,” Paul explains, “but it’s not enough for the entire college population. Sometimes, students go without essential services like contraceptives or proper counseling.” 

The consequences are devastating. Paul has witnessed several of his classmates face unplanned pregnancies, often forcing them to pause or completely abandon their education. “One of my closest friends got pregnant last semester,” he recalls. “She had to take her exams separately and now she’s back home caring for her baby while the rest of us continue with school.” 

To Paul, the solution is clear: increased investment and support for SRHR services within tertiary institutions. He believes that colleges like Domasi need more resources and expertise than what the government can provide on its own. “We need more partners to step in,” he says. “Organizations that understand SRHR and can help bring these services closer to us consistently and with enough capacity.” 

For Paul, this is about more than just services, it’s about safeguarding young people’s right to education, health, and dignity. “If we want to see a generation of educated, empowered youth, we must invest in their well-being first.” 

Picture: Paul on the left and friends. Captured By Shepherd Hambeyani