To date, there has been no systematic monitoring or evaluation of the impact of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) teacher training 1 in Nepal. While limited CSE related topics such as the reproductive system, puberty, and menstruation have been incorporated into in-school subjects, teachers have been observed skipping these chapters, leaving young people devoid of crucial sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) knowledge and information.
After concern was raised over the need to strengthen the capacity of teachers to deliver CSE, UNFPA began implementing a 5 day teacher training on CSE in 2018. The aim is to equip teachers with the capacity to teach CSE, however there is no concrete mechanism to monitor the impact and efficacy of training.
This mini pilot aims to understand the actual outcomes of the teacher training on CSE in Nepal. 3 YUWA researchers conducted interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire with a total of 32 respondents: 20 trained CSE teachers, 10 untrained CSE teachers from Province 1 and Sudurpaschim Province, and 2 trainers of CSE. The sample represented a cross-section of teachers from rural and semi-urban areas, male and female identifying teachers, and teachers of varying subjects.
Trained teachers were asked about the content, duration and impressions of the training received, as well as how it has impacted their ability to deliver CSE. Untrained teachers were asked about their comfort levels in teaching CSE. Both cohorts were asked about their understanding of CSE, challenges faced and resources needed.
Key Findings
- There’s been no follow-up with teachers who have been trained in CSE delivery
- There are limitations in the Nepali CSE curriculum that do not reflect on the teachers’ ability to deliver CSE
- Most interviewees avoided using Nepali words for ‘sex’ and ‘sexuality,’ especially male teachers
- The understanding of CSE amongst trained teachers is still incomplete, though there is better understanding of issues such as violence, menstruation and family planning, given the number of NGOs working on these issues
- Most trained teachers said the training had increased their confidence levels. Many cited changes in their personal lives as a result of the training, in addition to their ability to deliver CSE
- Untrained teachers expressed that they do not have enough information to deliver CSE fully, with some saying that they are uncomfortable doing so
- Untrained teachers were positive about the need for CSE in school settings
"We should discuss such topics more openly in society and community settings to uproot the myths and prejudices against them. I also think training should be provided to all teachers, students and parents. Local governments should spread awareness regarding such matters. We have youth clubs, student clubs, etc and these clubs can also be the peer educators in spreading such awareness.”
An untrained male teacher from the Province
Recommendations to Strengthen CSE Delivery in Nepal
- Conduct follow up and refresher training regularly to help trained teachers keep updated on CSE and ensure the effectiveness of training, especially focusing on the behavioural change of teachers. Develop an effective monitoring mechanism for CSE teachers’ training
- Include parents and adolescents in the training and discussions around CSE to enable the learning process on CSE
- Ensure teachers’ training on CSE emphasizes subject matter like sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, consent, privacy, pleasure. Ensure it is gender-friendly with an equal number of female teachers participating in the training with meaningful engagement
- School administration should initiate collaboration with local bodies and health centers for timely and need-based dissemination of CSE related information in schools and communities. Ensure a space for local youth clubs and children’s clubs for provision of CSE through peer-to-peer education
- Scale up the teachers training on CSE to the districts beyond the working districts of UNFPA. Ensure availability of various resources (pamphlets, posters, reading materials, as well as electronic equipment for audio-visual presentation) to teachers for effective CSE delivery
- Ensure safety and security and self-care of trained teachers so that they are able to cope with opposition
on active citizenship and SRHR. YUWA envisions a
society whereby youth, as indispensable change agents,
are valued as partners in decision making on all levels.
