Karnataka Government Plans to Introduce Sex Education in Schools

 

Karnataka Government Plans to Introduce Sex Education in Schools

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government is planning to introduce sex education for students from Classes 8 to 12, School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa announced on Wednesday.

In a written reply tabled in the Legislative Council, Bangarappa stated that local doctors and police personnel would conduct two sex education classes per week. The initiative aims to help students understand and cope with hormonal, physical, and emotional changes during adolescence. However, no specific timeline for the implementation was mentioned.

The education department also plans to conduct health check-ups twice a year for students in Classes 1 to 10. Additionally, nurses and doctors from local Primary Health Centers will provide monthly sessions on hygiene, contagious diseases, and the dangers of drug abuse.

To support students further, the government will establish counseling committees in colleges. A woman lecturer will be appointed as a nodal officer to assist girl students in discussing their concerns. Schools will also host counseling sessions by psychologists twice a year, with separate sessions for students exhibiting behavioral issues.

In an effort to raise awareness, police personnel will conduct workshops on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Schools will also be encouraged to hold monthly parent-teacher meetings focusing on students' overall development.

The minister expressed support for introducing moral education in the next academic year, emphasizing the need to instill values of mutual respect among students. He plans to discuss the proposal with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah before making a formal announcement.

The Legislative Council welcomed the initiative across party lines.