Opposition Spokesperson on Education Senator Damion Crawford is calling on the government to revisit the current age of consent to keep students enrolled in schools. He says it is significant to shift the consent age from 16 to 18. The Senator notes several students absent themselves from school or leave before fifth form.

He also notes when young adults are lured into sexual activities they are barred from fulfilling their academic purposes. Senator Crawford further highlights several reasons for absence, especially among females in Jamaica according to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) during his presentation in the Upper House on Friday.

He notes the issue should be treated with urgency, likening it to a State of Public  Emergency.

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