And two out of three girls in many countries lack the knowledge they need as they enter puberty and begin menstruating? Imagine a world where all children are able to complete their education in good health without having to drop out due to early, child or forced marriage or union, or early and unintended pregnancy. Quality comprehensive sexuality education CSE can make this world a reality, helping learners gain essential knowledge and skills to be healthy, empowered and foster positive and gender equitable relationships.
Comprehensive sexuality education - or the many other ways this may be referred to - is a curriculum-based process of teaching and learning about the cognitive, emotional, physical and social aspects of sexuality. It aims to equip children and young people with knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that empowers them to realize their health, well-being and dignity; develop respectful social and sexual relationships; consider how their choices affect their own well-being and that of others; and understand and ensure the protection of their rights throughout their lives.
CSE presents sexuality with a positive approach, emphasizing values such as respect, inclusion, non-discrimination, equality, empathy, responsibility and reciprocity.
It reinforces healthy and positive values about bodies, puberty, relationships, sex and family life. All parents, teachers and communities want children to thrive in their education, their health and their futures. Yet, too many young people receive confusing and conflicting information about puberty, relationships, love and sex, as they make the transition from childhood to adulthood.
A growing number of studies show that young people are turning to the digital environment as a key source of information about sexuality. CSE is adapted to the age and developmental stage of the learner and uses a learner-centered approach. Learners in lower grades are introduced to simple concepts such as family, respect and kindness, while older learners get to tackle more complex concepts such as gender-based violence, sexual consent, HIV testing, and pregnancy.
