The latest data on teenage pregnancies, as reported in the Bulletin on November 28, is worrying. It is an issue that the authorities need to address through education on reproduction.
It is more than just teaching schoolchildren the basic elements of human biology; it is about helping them recognise the signs, thus keeping them from falling prey to sexual assault, harassment, manipulation, grooming and other heinous crimes.
These classes should also empower kids to report to the authorities of any grooming done on them, be it from a family member, teacher or stranger.
Anyone who disagrees with the need to integrate the subject in schools is most likely unaware of the changing times. Like it or not, the access to Internet and social media means children are exposed to “sinful” aspects of life constantly. What they lack are ways to protect themselves from predators.
This is where the authorities come in: They could intervene by teaching children the dangers of premarital sex, the importance of strong faith and how to report sexual exploitation or grooming that has taken place. Thus, I support the introduction of a programme on reproduction in schools nationwide, as should all reasonable adults who want to protect kids from harm in these uncertain times.
Anak Sanamun
