Tengrinews.kz – Could Kazakhstan’s schools introduce a subject on "Sexual Education"? This question was posed to the Minister of Education and Science, Gani Beisembaev.
At a government briefing, the minister was reminded of a recent case in Almaty, where a 33-year-old man, who taught dombra lessons, spent time in a hotel with a 14-year-old student. The teacher was detained, and he is suspected of enticing a minor.
"Do you think it’s time to introduce sexual education lessons in Kazakhstan’s schools?" the minister was asked.
In response, Beisembaev called for an increase in parental responsibility for children’s behavior.
"I think that, first and foremost, it is right to raise parental responsibility. This has always been the case. These things were taught within the family, which is why we have specifically opened centers for pedagogical support for parents. I instructed that psychologists should educate parents there about how to handle children and how to teach them. The most correct and productive solution is when the parent takes responsibility and gets involved," Beisembaev said.
The minister emphasized that schools also "do not avoid responsibility" for educating the younger generation, but he believes it’s wrong to place the entire responsibility on educational institutions.
"Of course, schools do not refuse (to educate). We conduct relevant activities under the 'Birtutas Tarbie' program, but not in the direct sense you’re referring to. Education should primarily come from parents. Therefore, we believe it would be great if parents take charge. We will assist them in this," Beisembaev said.
Journalists clarified: does this mean that sexual education lessons will not be introduced in Kazakhstan’s schools in the coming years?
"They will not," the minister replied.