The Karnataka government is set to introduce a range of educational initiatives aimed at addressing key challenges faced by students in their adolescence, according to School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa. School Education Minister Bangarappa announced the move on March 19 in the Legislative Council during a discussion on adolescent issues. These programs will focus on sex education, cyber hygiene, moral education, and child safety awareness.
Sex Education for Grades 8 to 12
To impart necessary knowledge regarding the physiological, emotional, and hormonal alterations during adolescence to teenagers, sex education classes for students from class eight to class twelve will be implemented. They will be given twice a week by medical specialists and will cover regular health checks and counseling twice a year. The program aims to create increased awareness of sexual health and wellbeing among teenagers.
Cyber Hygiene Classes
In addition to sex education, the state government of Karnataka is also proposing to introduce cyber hygiene classes in order to combat the increasing incidence of digital addiction, early sexual activity, and teen pregnancies. Although the exact timeline for the program remains yet to be finalised, it aims to instill safe and prudent use of digital media among the students.
Moral Education for classes 1 to 10
From the following academic year, moral education as an essential subject will be taught to grade one to ten students. The syllabus will aim at imparting core values like integrity, honesty, patience, and respect. The classes are likely to be conducted twice a week, which will instill a solid ethical spirit in students.
Child Safety Awareness and Legal Protection
Along with these educational initiatives, the government of Karnataka is making efforts to raise awareness regarding child safety. Sessions will be held by police officials to inform students about the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The sessions will focus on empowering the students with information regarding their rights and legal safeguards against exploitation.
A Holistic Approach to Adolescent Well-being
Through these wide programs, the government of Karnataka seeks to deal with a plethora of issues adolescents face, such as health concerns, digital engagement, and personal safety. The initiative seeks to promote overall well-being while fostering responsible behavior and awareness among students.
