International Council for Education, Research and Training

Sex Education for the Youths of India: Need of the Hour

Suchiang, Yooluti1 and Mero, Neizo-ü2

1Research Scholar (PhD), Department of Education, Nagaland University (A Central University), Kohima Campus, Meriema

2Assistant Professor, Department of Education, Nagaland University (A Central University), Kohima Campus, Meriema

Abstract

Sex education is an urgent need for India’s youth. With the advancement of technologies and the influence of social media, the environment in which they grow has changed drastically. Access to the internet, smartphones, and peer pressure has made youngsters more vulnerable, thus making them engage in activities that are not age-appropriate. Therefore, increasing the level of knowledge among young people starting a sexually active life is essential. Sex education gives the youth with correct, age-appropriate knowledge and information about sexuality and sexual health, which is vital for their well-being and survival. It also equips them with the knowledge and information necessary to develop responsible attitudes and behavior related to sex, promoting a healthy and balanced sexual life. In the majority of the studies done in India, it has been found that the stakeholders have a positive and favorable attitude towards sex education. However, its integration into the Indian educational system remains a difficult and most neglected issue. The New Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) has provided a necessary change and transformation required in the education system, garnering the title of “refreshing” and “transforming.” Despite its holistic and multidisciplinary approach, it stays silent on one of the key subjects, which is sex education (Singh, 2024).  The paper aims to emphasize the necessity and significance of sex education in the country, as well as the initiatives the Government of India has implemented in this area. In the present paper, the researcher also discusses sex education from the perspective of NEP 2020 and the challenges of imparting sex education in the country.

Keywords: Sex Education, NEP 2020, Youths, emphasize, transforming.

Impact Statement

The article “Sex Education for the Youths of India: Need of the Hour” mounts a remarkable impact on the importance of sex education for the youth of India. Sex Education is one of the most neglected area in the country owing to cultural, religious and political factors. The study has found that there is lack of consistent implementation of sex education in India which makes the youth rely on internet, peers etc. to get themselves informed regarding sexual related matters which can be wrong and inaccurate information. A well designed curriculum is needed for all levels of Education to cater to the needs of the youths in relation to their sexual life. With proper implementation of sex education, it will help students gain the correct and accurate information, skills and knowledge and make well informed decisions for a healthy sex life. It will also provide values, beliefs and importance of one’s well-being and health and that of others. 

About The Author

Dr. Neizo-ü Mero is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Education, Nagaland University. She has been contributing research articles in UGC Care list and Peer reviewed journals, and has also attended and presented several papers in national and international seminars and conferences. She is also a life member of North-East India Education Society (NEIES).

 

Dr. Mero did her Ph.D from North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong, in the area of higher education. She has guided several Ph.D scholars, most of whom are employed in higher education sector. She has been associated with project related to women empowerment in Nagaland and has been actively engaged in community extension services apart from other academic duties.

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