HRCM research: Majority ignorant of basic sexual health education

Research findings by Human Rights Commission of Maldives (HRCM) shows majority of Maldivians lack basic sexual and reproductive health education.

The research report “Right to Sexual and Reproductive Health Education” is the first such research work to be conducted by HRCM.

The report was released this Thursday, on occasion of Human Rights Day, by former HRCM member and current President of Civil Service Commission, Dr. Ali Shameem Mohamed.

The research work, conducted using a qualitative method, is based on interviews with relevant authorities, information collected from people in 11 islands from six-select atolls, and research on school text books.

Information was collected from 858 sources; 402 of them school students, 128 of them young men and women, 137 of them parents, and 118 of them educators.

Speaking regarding some key findings of the research, Director of HRCM’s Research and Monitoring Department, Ahmed Ameen said that majority of the youth population did not have sufficient access to sexual education and reproductive health education. And that many were ignorant of the most basic information.

Majority of the parents were ignorant of sources of information regarding sexual education and reproductive health, and the services available from such sources.

Those who sought information from such sources were unhappy with the services.

Ameen said that many of the participants had noted the importance of establishing a center from where such information can be available.

Information collected from the school system shows inadequacy of information regarding sexual health and reproductive health, and lack of resources from where to garner such information prior to the implementation of the new curriculum in 2016.

Findings showed most students tried to gather such information over social media and other internet sources – leading to misinformation.

The research also shows many teachers aren’t comfortable with educating children on sexual health and reproductive health, refuse to answer questions by students after such discussions, or express discomfort.

Such issues are prevalent in Islamic Studies classes – where such education is especially necessary.