The role of youth apostolate programs in addressing early teenage pregnancy in the soroti catholic diocese (uganda)

Paul Ekwenyu

doi:10.21697/wsp.2025.2.03

Published: 2025-11-06

Vol. 60 No. 2 (2025)

Rola programów apostolstwa młodzieży w rozwiązywaniu problemu wczesnej ciąży nastolatek w Diecezji Katolickiej Soroti (Uganda)

Paul Ekwenyu

Warszawskie Studia Pastoralne

Section: Artykuły

https://doi.org/10.21697/wsp.2025.2.03

Abstract

This study examines the role of youth apostolate programs in preventing teenage pregnancy in Soroti Catholic Diocese, Uganda. These Church-led initiatives promote chastity, sexual education, spiritual formation, and peer mentoring. They empower youth with knowledge, values, and decision- making skills. Community and family engagement also play a crucial role. Data shows a drop in teenage pregnancy rates from 25% to 15% over three years. Participants report increased awareness and confidence in avoiding risky behavior. Challenges include limited resources, cultural resistance, and lack of follow-up. Strengthening mentorship and funding is recommended. The programs are effective but need greater support. Overall, they offer a faith-based, holistic approach to youth development.

Keywords:

teenage pregnancy, youth apostolate, retreats, child marriage

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Citation rules

Ekwenyu, P. (2025). Rola programów apostolstwa młodzieży w rozwiązywaniu problemu wczesnej ciąży nastolatek w Diecezji Katolickiej Soroti (Uganda). Warszawskie Studia Pastoralne, 60(2), 39–61. https://doi.org/10.21697/wsp.2025.2.03

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Paul Ekwenyu

https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8326-1877

Affiliation:

Uniwersytet Kardynała Stefana Wyszyńskiego w Warszawie Uganda

Bio Statement (e.g., department and rank)

Ks. Paul Ekwenyu – urodził się w 1985 r. w Amurii w Ugandzie; jest księdzem rzymskokatolickim diecezji Soroti; ukończył Wyższe Seminarium Duchowne św. Pawła w Kinyamasika; uzyskał tytuł licencjata teologii na Uniwersytecie Urbaniana w 2014 r.; był administratorem parafii Najświętszego Serca Pana Jezusa w Kogelak; obecnie kończy studia licencjackie z teologii praktycznej na Uniwersytecie Kardynała Stefana Wyszyńskiego.