Why administer HPV jabs to schoolgirls?

I HAVE previously SMSed to question why the human papillomavirus or HPV injection is administered to girls at a young age. I have not received an answer.

Surely these children are not yet sexually active? Why is it the concern of the Department of Basic Education to execute this task?

Could parents not be informed of the importance of obtaining the inoculation and leave it to the parents to decide when they wish their daughters to have it?

Has the expert or other professional been consulted prior to the department taking it upon themselves to do so? I guess medical input was sought, but these young children are still under the care of a paediatrician. Surely they are not at the stage of having vigorous sex on a daily or weekly basis to develop cervical cancer over the next year or two.

I feel that the injection could be delayed until a girl is old enough to be told what it is for and why it is important for her to have it. Should this matter not be given more serious thought?

It may not be the case but I feel the child’s rights are not being respected.

Condoms were also introduced at schools without parents’ consent. There was a very good reason for it at the time, yes – HIV.

But was there any information or education accompanying this?

And has it helped to keep teenage pregnancies at bay?

Parents may be guided and assisted. They are certainly not helpless or stupid.

There is so much violence, unsavoury, disagreeable and offensive happenings at schools.

I am sure parents’ minds would be put at ease if the Education Department could help create an environment where pupils are safe and are able to learn and grow.