Lucknow: In a pioneering step aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) has unveiled “Sex, Relationships, and Society: Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum” — India’s first structured, contextualized curriculum on sexuality education designed for Indian schools.
The launch event, held in Lucknow, brought together principals, educators, and students from several leading institutions including Study Hall, La Martinière, Seth M.R. Jaipuria, City Montessori, GD Goenka, Kunskapsskolan, APS Academy, and Adani Gems School. The initiative aims to shift classroom conversations from taboo and misinformation to awareness, empathy, and inclusivity.
Dr. Urvashi Sahni, Founder and CEO of SHEF, described the curriculum as “a transformative step toward redefining education.” She noted that the program extends far beyond biological lessons, focusing instead on helping young people understand identity, values, and respectful relationships.
“True education should prepare every young person to live with dignity and empathy. This curriculum gives them the tools to think critically, challenge stereotypes, and build a world rooted in respect and equality,” Dr. Sahni said.
Developed under the leadership of Zarine Garcia, the curriculum was created after years of field research, student engagement, and pilot testing across SHEF’s schools, including Prerna Girls and Prerna Boys. The modules address self-awareness, consent, gender, puberty, reproductive health, digital safety, inclusion, and the understanding of relationships in a cultural context.
Student voices also shaped the dialogue at the launch. Shreevats Shukla, a Class 12 student from Study Hall, remarked,
“We can’t stay silent about things that affect our lives. Talking openly about gender, consent, and respect helps us question toxic ideas and create change.”
Similarly, Vanshika Mishra from Seth M.R. Jaipuria School emphasized, “Young people deserve accurate, respectful information — not shame or silence. When we know our rights and choices, we gain confidence and equality.”
A participating parent added that responsible conversations at home and in schools are essential:
“If we don’t talk, the internet becomes their teacher. It’s our duty to ensure young people learn what’s factual and empowering.”
The program’s design takes a whole-person, rights-based approach, supported by teacher training, workshops, and year-long mentorship. By fostering open dialogue, critical thinking, and empathy, SHEF’s initiative aims to make comprehensive sexuality education an integral, stigma-free part of the Indian education system.
