Problems arise when teenagers cannot find out anything from their parents or teachers. They check out pornographic websites or buy magazines with obscene material.

We should not be ashamed to promote sex education among youngsters.

Girls usually mature faster than boys. So they need to know about pregnancy, contraceptives and other issues.

It is a concern that an increasing number of teenage girls are having unwanted pregnancies.

I think having an abortion is the only solution.

Young couples should not be forced into marriage.

They would find it hard to look after their new-born babies and the children would grow up in an unhealthy environment.

It is very important that youngsters develop the proper attitude towards sex.

Ivy To, Leung Shek Chee College

Learn to control your emotions

More people are suffering from emotional problems because of the city's hectic lifestyle.

If we are unhappy, our families and friends will be worried. This shows our emotions can affect others. When we are angry, we hurt others physically or use offensive language.

There are many ways to control our emotions.

We can take a deep breath or leave the place quietly if we feel the situation is getting out of hand.

Or we can have a cup of tea or wash our face to cool down.

We should learn to keep our emotions under control. It will make life much easier.

Navkiran, California School

Don't ever hurt animals

An official from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) gave a talk at our school recently.

She told us we should never hurt animals.

I have loved animals since I was a child. Raising a dog or a cat is a wonderful thing. I can't imagine why people would treat their pets badly.

The SPCA official said the association saves more than 1,000 animals every year, but there are many more waiting to be rescued.

She showed us some pictures of animals that were mistreated by their owners. I could not believe what I saw.

It is not only pets who are badly treated. People kill wild animals like tigers and bears for their body parts.

We need to raise public awareness of the importance of protecting and taking care of animals. Otherwise, our planet will suffer.

Joanna Ngai Lo-ying, Tin Ka Ping Secondary School

Don't destroy the precious gift of life

I recently watched a TV programme which taught me to cherish life.

An embryo is created by hundreds of cells. It will quickly develop its head, heart, fingers and so on.

After nine months, a lovely baby is ready to come into the world. We have to treasure it as a precious gift of life.

However, hundreds of abortions take place every day. The programme also showed how an embryo is killed. I was horrified.

I can't imagine how anyone could allow this to happen.

If you become pregnant, don't have an abortion. Think about the gift of life you are carrying.

Queenie Lui, Leung Shek Chee College

Keep an eye on what primary pupils eat

I recently read a newspaper report about obesity problem among primary students.

I think food manufacturers are responsible for this situation. Their only goal is to attract as many customers as possible and make a huge profit.

Food companies don't care about public health. Their products contain high levels of fat, sugar and preservatives.

Many primary students do not know about the harmful effects of eating junk food.

By the time they realise this, they are already overweight.

The government should step up publicity campaigns to alert youngsters to the dangers of consuming fast food.

In addition, the food supplied to primary schools should be monitored.

We should tackle this problem immediately.

Marten Lau Chun-wun

Winning ways

There are three simple steps to overcome setbacks.

Firstly, a positive attitude can help you to deal with challenges.

Secondly, think about what you have done.

Be honest with yourself, and avoid making the same mistakes again.

Thirdly, set targets and put them into practice. This will let you know how much progress you have made.

Don't let adversity worry you. Stay strong and overcome difficulties. Remember: 'The sun rises after the dark'.

Anthony Kwong, Shun Lee Catholic Secondary School

Helping hand

There are many ways to help the needy. When I was in Form Two, I joined a voluntary programme.

Once, I visited a centre for mentally challenged people and created a wall painting with them.

I was a bit nervous at first, but they were very enthusiastic.

Now I have to prepare for my public examination.

After that, I hope to take part in more voluntary work.

Susanna Lee, Tin Ka Ping Secondary School