A Workshop on Sexuality in Pragat Shikshan Sanstha

Should sexuality education be given to school children? If yes, then how should it be imparted? Do teachers know enough? To seek the answers to these and many such questions and empower our teachers, a workshop on sexuality was conducted for all the teachers and staff of Pragat Shikshan Sanstha (PSS) on 19 December 2012. Dr. Sanjeevani Kulkarni, the coordinator of Prayas Health Group, Pune, Editor of Palakneeti magazine and one of the trustees of PSS conducted this workshop.

Dr. Sanjeevani Kulkarni put everybody at ease through informal conversation. In the first session of the workshop teachers were given some statements to discuss in groups. They had to determine whether those statements were true or misconceptions and explain the reasons. This exercise brought about quite a thorough discussion accompanied with scientific explanations.

In the afternoon session the groups were given stories of different incidents based on child sexual abuses that could happen anywhere around us. Each group had to discuss the incident and present its views regarding the happenings in the story. They also had to discuss which of the characters were at fault and how they could help the abused. Teachers were made to realize how important it was to be always alert of things happening around as well as to instill in our children the courage to say no to unwanted touch.

All the teachers and office staff of PSS participated in this workshop that ran from 10 am to 6.30 pm. Dr. Manjiri Nimbkar, Director of PSS too guided participants along with Sanjeevanitai. All the teachers agreed to have an action plan in the form of a committee called sajag samiti. The members of this committee would work towards providing a free and safe environment not only in KNB but also other schools in Phaltan.