I am adding an opposing voice to the debate around the suggested four-month maternity leave for schoolgirls.

I am adding an opposing voice to the debate around the suggested four-month maternity leave for schoolgirls.

Firstly, these teens should go to school, pass their matric, go to tertiary institutions and build their careers.

This maternity leave thing will only encourage young schoolgirls to have sex, exposing them to the deadly HI virus that will ruin their live.

These teens should abstain or use the free condoms that are on offer.

Secondly, what's all this about maternity leave for schoolgirls who are not married or working?

Thirdly, making babies is for adults not teenagers. It is sick for the teachers union in KwaZulu-Natal to even suggest this kind of maternity leave.

Allen Thompson, the union's vice president, must be told that he is making a big mistake.

I think President Thabo Mbeki should cancel the child support grants because this maternity leave thing will drive schoolgirls to become pregnant so they can benefit from it.

To all the teenage girls I say, go to school, get an education, forget about boys and keep your virginity.

Princess Mudawe, Soshanguve