In the spirit of fostering a healthier future for Kosovo's youth, UNFPA and the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation recently organized a gathering with key stakeholders, the Parents' Council, high school teachers specialized in CSE, members of the CSE working group, and high school students.
This initiative aimed to shed light on the importance of Comprehensive Sexual Education (CSE) and its role in equipping students with accurate information about sexual health. In the midst of this week dedicated to health education, Head of UNFPA kosovo office, Visare Mujko-Nimani and Minister Arbërie Nagavci paid a visit to "Sami Frashëri" High School to emphasize the significance of CSE in the context of today's ever-evolving information landscape.
Minister Nagavci, during her visit to "Sami Frashëri" High School, highlighted the crucial role that CSE plays in the lives of today's students. In an era of unlimited access to information, it's essential to ensure that knowledge about sexual health is presented in an age-appropriate and responsible manner. As Minister Nagavci aptly noted, "Maintaining health is the most important part of our lives, where the health of our children and youth holds a special place."
Kosovo recognizes the importance of comprehensive sexual education, and it is an integral part of the Kosovo Curriculum Framework. The Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation has been proactive in addressing this need, formulating policies, developing educational materials, and conducting teacher training programs across all municipalities in Kosovo.
Minister Nagavci emphasized the importance of providing children and adolescents with accurate and comprehensive information about the medical, scientific, physiological, and psychological aspects of sexual health. This knowledge equips them to make informed decisions, promoting healthier behaviors now and in the future.
Furthermore, Minister Nagavci praised the intersectoral working group and UNFPA for their collaboration in developing handbooks tailored for teachers at different educational levels. These resources play a pivotal role in delivering CSE effectively, addressing the unique needs and understanding of students from levels 1-5, levels 6-9, and levels 10-12. The Ministry of Education remains dedicated to the wellbeing and health of children in educational institutions.
Visare Mujko Nimani, the head of UNFPA, commended the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation for taking the lead in the region by successfully addressing sexual education as a school subject. Kosovo's efforts in incorporating CSE as a regular part of the curriculum set a notable precedent, making it a model for the region.
This multistakeholder approach underscores the commitment of Kosovo to ensuring that its youth are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for making informed decisions about their sexual health. It's a step towards a healthier, more informed, and empowered generation, paving the way for a brighter future for Kosovo's youth.
