Stories on sexuality education and information
Read the stories from young people around the world on the importance of sexuality education and information.
Education
Every young person deserves access to clear, reliable and age-appropriate information about relationships and sexual health. Good education helps them understand themselves and others, build respectful relationships and make informed choices about their bodies and lives.
The challenge
Too many young people do not receive adequate sexuality education at school or at home. Instead, they are left to figure it out on their own, often relying on peers or online sources.
At the same time, teachers and parents often want to help but lack time, tools or support.
What sexuality education covers
Sexuality education is about more than biology. It includes:
- Consent and boundaries
- Relationships and respect
- Identity and wellbeing
- Rights and responsibility
It helps young people build confidence and skills to navigate relationships and social expectations. These do not always provide reliable information.
Why it matters
When done well, sexuality education strengthens healthy development. It supports:
- Safer and more respectful relationships
- Better wellbeing
- More equal societies
Evidence shows it also leads to:
- Better knowledge and confidence
- Healthier behaviours
- Lower rates of unintended pregnancy
- Improved contraceptive use
- Less stigma and discrimination
The gap
Despite progress in many countries, there is still a gap between policy and practice.
Education is often not comprehensive, inclusive or age-appropriate. Teachers also need more training and support to deliver it effectively.
At the same time, young people are increasingly exposed to misinformation about sexuality online and offline.
Our work
We work to ensure all young people have access to high-quality sexuality education, both in and outside of school.
This includes education that is:
- Curriculum-based
- Scientifically accurate
- Age-appropriate
- Inclusive and relevant to young people’s lives
Where school-based education is not possible, we support online and community-based approaches.
We also work with schools, teacher training institutes, parents, caregivers and policymakers to strengthen systems. This includes improving curricula, building teacher capacity and supporting long-term delivery.+
Our goal
All young people should have access to sexuality education that is age-appropriate, honest, inclusive and evidence-based, so they can grow up informed, confident and able to make their own choices.