Mahama to expunge comprehensive sexual education from school curriculum

There are several potential disadvantages of introducing comprehensive sexual education into the school curriculum in Ghana:

Cultural and religious beliefs: Ghana is a diverse country with a range of cultural and religious beliefs. Some communities may oppose comprehensive sexual education due to cultural taboos or religious teachings that discourage discussions about sex and sexuality in schools.

Parental opposition: Some parents may feel uncomfortable with the idea of their children receiving sexual education in school, preferring to handle these discussions at home. This could lead to conflicts between parents, educators, and policymakers.

Stigma and discrimination: In a conservative society like Ghana, discussing topics related to sex and sexuality openly in schools could lead to stigma and discrimination against students who are perceived as being sexually active or LGBTQ+

As a result of some of these disadvantages Former President John Mahama who is also the 2024 presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress has announced plans to remove comprehensive sexual education from the country's school curriculum if elected the next president. Mahama believes that such education should be the responsibility of parents and guardians, rather than schools.

In a statement, Mahama said, "I believe that the responsibility of teaching children about sexual education should lie with parents and guardians, who can provide guidance and support based on their own values and beliefs. Schools should focus on academic subjects and leave the teaching of sexual education to the home."

Mahama's decision has sparked debate among educators and parents in Ghana, with many supporting his stance, and believe that comprehensive sexual education exposes learners to “alien” and “Western” sexual norms and orientations, including LGBTQ+

Anthony Obeng Afrane