Educationists advocate early sex education to curb teenage pregnancy, STDs

Several educators and other Nigerians have advocated for the implementation of early and comprehensive sex education to foster healthy lifestyles, mitigate risks, and enable adolescents to make well-informed choices regarding their sexual health.

During interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos on Sunday, they expressed that early sex education would address issues such as teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections among young people.

Mrs. Adetoro Abeeb, a teacher at a public school in Lagos, emphasized the numerous benefits of early sex education.

"Sex education equips students to make informed choices about their sexual health, relationships, and overall well-being.

"It would also contribute to a reduction in the incidence of teenage pregnancy. Research has indicated that sex education can result in lower rates of teenage pregnancies," she stated.

She called on the government to mandate sex education in schools, asserting that it would benefit students, families, and society as a whole.

Mrs. Kemi Oke, another educator, characterized early sex education in Nigeria as an increasingly significant issue.

“Early sex education in Nigeria is a topic of growing importance, particularly given the rising cases of sexual abuse and exploitation among children.

“The National Sexuality Education Curriculum introduced in Nigeria in 2002 encourages parents to begin sex education at home.

“Early sex education prevents sexual abuse, educates children on body boundaries and consent.

“It promotes healthy relationships, fosters respect, communication, and empathy,” she said.

A mother, Mrs Shola Johnson, told NAN that teachers should be equipped with appropriate skills to deliver sex education.

“By prioritising early sex education, Nigeria can empower children with knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate their reproductive health and relationships.

“This can ultimately foster a healthier and more informed society,” she said.

Mr Bayo Oluadekoya, a mechanical engineer, told NAN that sex education would help adolescents to understand how to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections, including human immunodeficiency virus.

“Sex education can help students to develop healthy relationships and good communication skills, and reduce gender-based violence.

“Sex education can help students to understand consent, boundaries, and respect for others,” he said.

He added that sex education could help to address harmful cultural and societal norms contributing to gender inequality and sexual violence.

Mr Mofe Oluwajuwon, a businessman, said that sex education would empower students, especially girls, to take control of their bodies, health, and well-being.

“Sex education can help to reduce stigma and shame associated with sexual health and relationships.

“It can promote healthy lifestyles, including responsible sexual behaviour and decision-making.

“It can also provide critical support to vulnerable populations such as adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living with HIV,” he said.

He added that early sex education would promote healthy lifestyles, reduce risks, and empower students to make informed decisions about their sexual health and well-being.