What is Comprehensive Sexuality Education?
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is much more than explaining the parts and functions of the male and female reproductive systems to students.
CSE is the process of teaching and learning about the cognitive, emotional, physical, and social aspects of sexuality. In other words, CSE deals with what it means to be a human being, and the vital role sexuality plays in the process of being human. It equips children and young people not just with knowledge, but with attitudes, skills and values.
CSE is important because we, as adults, want our children to grow up into responsible and healthy adults, who are respectful of themselves and of other people, are able to make responsible choices and have a clear sense of their own values.
CSE needs to be part of the school curriculum and delivered in an atmosphere where learning takes place, without embarrassment, and creates a space where each student feels comfortable, safe and able to ask questions. What is learnt has to be scientifically accurate, appropriate to the age and developmental level of the child, and sensitive to the local culture.
Comprehensive sexuality education can be imparted by any adult who is comfortable with the topics, is non-judgmental and allows for healthy debate and different points of view.