November 10, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has called for the introduction of a structured, age-appropriate sex education programme in schools as part of wider education reforms aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and misconduct.
Addressing a public awareness event in Kandy for representatives of the Kandy District, the Prime Minister stressed that the initiative would be designed and implemented with expert input from the health and child protection sectors.
Dr Amarasuriya explained that a textbook tailored for Grade 6 students has already been developed, reflecting the government’s intention to provide accurate, age-sensitive information. She noted that both the Ministry of Health and the Family Health Bureau have long advocated for sex education in schools, citing a worrying rise in incidents of child abuse and harassment across the country.
“The National Child Protection Authority has also highlighted the urgent need to equip children with knowledge on how to protect themselves,” she said, adding that inter-ministerial discussions are currently underway to finalise the framework.
While the government has yet to determine the precise age or grade at which the new lessons will be introduced, the Prime Minister noted that the content will be guided by medical and educational experts.
“As children grow and begin to experience physical and emotional changes, it is vital that they understand how to stay safe — and that this knowledge is shared in a responsible, age-appropriate way,” she emphasised.
