Karnataka govt plans to introduce sex education for classes 8 to 12

Bengaluru: School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa on Wednesday announced that the education department plans to impart sex education to students of Classes 8 to 12.

In his 12-page written reply tabled in the Legislative Council in response to a special debate on the problems faced by adolescent children in the state, the minister said two classes per week on sex education would be imparted by local doctors and police personnel. He, however, didn't mention when the initiative will be launched.

"These classes will help children handle hormonal changes leading to changes in mental, physical and emotional changes," the reply said.

The education department also plans health check ups twice a year for students of Classes 1 to 10. Apart from this, nurses and doctors working in the local Primary Health Centers will give monthly orientation about hygiene, contagious diseases and ill effects of drug abuse as part of health education, the reply said.

The government will also set up counselling committees in colleges. A woman lecturer will be appointed as nodal officer to enable girl students to discuss their problems freely. 

The aim of these initiatives is to address problems faced by children, adolescents and their parents.

The minister's reply further stated that the education department would hold counselling sessions by noted psychologists in every school twice every year. "Separate counselling sessions will be held for those children who have developed 'unnatural/unwarranted' behavior in schools by noted psychiatrists," the reply read.

The minister said that schools will also hold workshops by police personnel to educate students about the Pocso Act.

Schools will be asked to hold parent-teacher meetings on a monthly basis, which will focus primarily on childrens' overall development rather than focusing merely on their marks.

Bangrappa said he was in favour of introducing moral education from next academic year. "We need to inculcate the concept — give respect to gain respect — among our children. Before introducing moral science classes, I will discuss with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to make a formal announcement," he said.

The minister’s reply was welcomed in the Council cutting across party lines.