NGO introduces scholarships for virgins

BY WATIPASO MZUNGU JNR

Schoolchildren who can prove that they have never had sex since their birth are being offered the chance to gain scholarships to university under a scheme introduced by the newly formed faith based organization, Holiness Ministry for Protection and Development of Youth (HOMPDY).

HOMPDY chairperson Pastor Mackean Gulumba said at a press conference held in Blantyre on Tuesday the aim of the scholarships was to promote virginity among the youth as a means for combating HIV and Aids in the country.

Both boys and girls from all over the country will be eligible for the scholarships if they apply and pass a virginity test to be conducted by a well-trained medical practitioner, Pastor Gulumba said.

He said the scheme aims at promoting morality and that successful scholarship applicants would have to submit to a gynecological examination to demonstrate their chastity.

“Some more gifts will be given on brides and grooms who prove to be virgins at the time of their marriage. The idea is to try to instil a culture of total abstinence and maintain virginity in children aged eight to 14. We believe this is the only surest way of fighting the pandemic,” he explained.

“We want our children to totally refrain from sexual intercourse until they are married. It’s our prayer that Malawians should adhere to virginity as one of God’s ordinances,” added Gulumba.

HOMPDY Projects Manager Hastings John Magombo said the organization will also inspire girls with self-esteem, saying girls have usually fallen victims of rape and defilement because they are lacking self-esteem.

“If our children can choose to maintain their virginity, there will be reduced cases of rape. This will, in turn, lead to reduction in the number of new HIV infections,” Magombo stated.

Asked about their stand on the use of condoms, another executive member of the organization, Rev. Tendance Suya, said although they are not demeaning efforts by other players, the organization will be fighting for total abstinence.

“We want the youth not to be thinking about condoms, but virginity alone,” said Suya.

Rev. Suya expressed hope that the new offer would encourage responsible living and help in the fight against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/Aids by offering a reward for children to avoid risky behaviour.

Meanwhile, the organization has lined up 60 nationwide activities to sensitize community and traditional leaders about the new development.

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