Karnataka to introduce sex education and cyber hygiene classes for school students

The Karnataka government is set to introduce sex education classes for students in grades 8 to 12, aiming to provide essential awareness about physical, emotional, and hormonal changes during adolescence. The initiative, led by the School Education and Literacy Department, will be implemented twice a week, with medical professionals conducting sessions.

As part of the program, students will also receive periodic health check-ups and counseling sessions twice a year. Primary Health Centre staff will be involved in educating students on hygiene, communicable diseases, and the risks of drug abuse.

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In addition to sex education, the government is planning cyber hygiene classes to address concerns related to digital addiction, premature sexual activity, and teenage pregnancies. However, the implementation timeline for these classes remains undecided.

Moral education is also set to become a mandatory subject for students from grades 1 to 10. These sessions, expected to be held twice a week from the next academic year, will emphasize core values such as integrity, truthfulness, and patience.

To enhance child safety awareness, police officials will educate students on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, through interactive sessions. This initiative aims to equip students with knowledge of their rights and legal safeguards against exploitation.

The comprehensive approach seeks to address multiple adolescent challenges, ensuring their well-being while promoting responsible digital behavior and moral development.