Karnataka’s School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa on Wednesday said that the education department will impart sex education for students between Classes eight and 12.

The minister’s reply was welcomed in the Council cutting across party lines. Bangarappa’s 12-page written reply tabled in the Legislative Council in response to a debate on the problems faced by adolescent children in the state.  He said two classes per week will be set aside for sex education and this would be imparted by local doctors and police personnel. He, however, did not give a time frame on when the initiative will be rolled out.

The reply stated that these classes will be designed to assist children in managing the hormonal changes that lead to mental, physical, and emotional shifts.

Biannual health check-ups will be conducted in schools for students between Classes 1 and 10. Nurses and doctors from local Primary Health Centers will also hold monthly orientations on hygiene, contagious diseases, and the dangers of drug abuse as part of health education.

Counseling committees appointed in colleges with a woman lecturer appointed as the nodal officer will help female students discuss their challenges without inhibitions.

In response, Bangarappa also said that the education department will organize biannual counseling sessions with prominent psychologists at schools. Separate counseling will be provided for students displaying ‘unnatural/unwarranted’ behavior, facilitated by experienced psychiatrists. Additionally, schools will host workshops led by police personnel to educate students about the POCSO Act.

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.

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