Once considered a taboo, discussions on sexual health, sexual harassment, teenage pregnancy, and personal hygiene will now be taught in monastic institutions. Starting this year, young monks and nuns in primary classes will be taught life skills to navigate these issues alongside traditional scriptures. Through the initiative, the United Nations Population Fund and the Central Monastic Body will integrate Life Skills Education into the Sheja-Seljed curriculum. The Laytshog Lopen of the Central Monastic Body and the UNFPA Asia-Pacific Regional Director launched eight textbooks yesterday designed to guide the initiative.
“We will implement the programme in three central monastic schools: one in Dechenphodrang, Thimphu, another in Punakha, Phochu Dhumra Lobdra, and the third in Monggar, Gyalpoizhing. This initiative will greatly benefit young monks and nuns by allowing them to learn life skills alongside their studies. Gaining knowledge in these areas at an early age will better prepare them for the future. As they grow, many will assume roles as teachers or leaders, engaging with their communities. Acquiring life skills early will enable them to raise awareness about menstrual hygiene, sexual and reproductive health, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) in their communities,” said Kinley Penjor, the chief programme officer at the Central Monastic Body.
Samten Dolkar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
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