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Description
The implementation of holistic, human rights– and science–based sexuality education in Lithuania is still facing considerable resistance and does not find a specific place in the education system. The topics of HR are still on the margins due to the great fragmentation of society, fear of dealing with inconvenient topics, lack of understanding of these topics. Although the new Life Skills Program, which is currently being developed, integrates several topics of sexuality education, the particularly important themes of sexual orientation, gender identity, healthy and equitable, and safer sex remain little or not discussed at all. Also, a significant number of representatives of (non) formal education institutions still see inconvenience and lack of tools to work on these topics. Therefore, this project, operating in parallel at the local and national level, aims to ensure high–quality implementation of sexuality education as a tool for the prevention of bullying, violence against LGBTI + persons in education institutions of two Lithuanian municipalities (Vilnius and Marijampolė). The target groups of this project are non–formal education institutions, representatives of Vilnius and Marijampolė Municipalities, representatives of the Parliament HR and/or Education Committees and the Ministry of Education, and indirect target group – students and young people and the general public in Lithuania. It is expected that after the meetings, the representatives of the Municipalities will find concrete ways to integrate quality sexuality education into (non) formal education institutions, meetings with Parliament Committees will help to include our suggestions for the Life Skills Program more effectively, an in-service training program will be accredited, and with the help of the provided supervisions, we will be able to strengthen skills of the staff of (non) formal education institutions.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several critical issues and challenges related to sexuality education in Lithuanian educational institutions, particularly in Vilnius and Marijampolė.,so here are the main issues it targeted:
Lack of comprehensive sexuality education: there was a significant gap in comprehensive and inclusive sexuality education that addressed topics like relationships, personal boundaries, puberty, health, and self-awareness;
Prevention of bullying and gender-based violence: the project sought to address bullying, gender-based violence, and discrimination against LGBTI+ individuals by equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to effectively discuss and teach these issues.
Inadequate educators training: educators often lacked the proper training and resources to handle sensitive topics related to sexuality education, which are crucial for fostering a safe and supportive learning environment.
Social stigma and resistance: sexuality education can provoke controversy and resistance within communities, partly due to misconceptions and cultural attitudes towards discussing topics related to sexuality openly.
Need for policy support and advocacy: the project also aimed to advocate for supportive policies and practices that reinforce the importance and implementation of sexuality education based on human rights principles.
By tackling these issues, the project intended to create a more informed, respectful, and inclusive educational atmosphere that promotes the well-being and development of all students.
The project implemented several key activities to address the identified challenges and improve sexuality education in Lithuanian educational institutions: Development and accreditation of educational module: a comprehensive sexuality education module was created and accredited during the project, that included topics such as personal boundaries, healthy relationships, puberty, and discrimination prevention. This module was designed to be used in both formal and informal educational settings.
Training sessions for educators: a significant part of the project was focused on conducting training sessions for teachers and education professionals. These training sessions aimed to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively deliver sexuality education, emphasizing human rights and gender equality.
Community building and engagement: the project established a community on social media platforms like Facebook, where participants could share information, discuss relevant topics, and stay connected. This community also facilitated ongoing support and resource sharing among educators. Public awareness and advocacy: efforts were made to raise public awareness about the importance of comprehensive sexuality education. The project also engaged in advocacy to influence policy and garner support from various stakeholders.
Creation of educational resources: the project developed a range of educational resources, including posters, videos, and online content, which were made available to educators and the wider public. These resources were designed to be accessible and to provide valuable information that could be easily integrated into educational curricula.
Through these activities, the project aimed to create a sustainable and positive impact on sexuality education in Lithuania, contributing to a safer and more inclusive educational environment for all students.
The project achieved several important results, benefiting young people and educators, involved in and affected by sexuality education in Lithuania, especially in the regions of Vilnius and Marijampolė. Enhanced educator skills: one of the primary achievements was the significant improvement in the skills and knowledge of educators in both formal and informal educational settings. Teachers and education professionals received trainings that enabled them to effectively implement comprehensive sexuality education, addressing topics like gender-based violence, bullying, and LGBTI+ discrimination. Development and distribution of resources: the project successfully developed and disseminated a wide range of educational resources, including training materials, and digital content. These resources are now being utilized by educators to provide more informed and supportive teaching on sexuality and human rights. Establishment of a supportive community: through the use of social media platforms, particularly Facebook, the project fostered an active and supportive community of educators. This community allows for ongoing dialogue, resource sharing, and collaboration, which continues to support the sustainability of the project''s goals.
Increased public Awareness and advocacy: the project raised public awareness about the importance of comprehensive sexuality education. It also engaged in advocacy efforts to influence educational policies and practices, helping to establish a more supportive environment for the implementation of sexuality education. Empowered students: by training educators who interact directly with students, the project indirectly benefited a large number of young people. These students are now receiving education that is more inclusive, respectful, and supportive, thereby enhancing their personal development and understanding of critical social issues. These outcomes not only demonstrate the project''s success in meeting its objectives but also underscore its contribution to the broader goal of creating a safer, more inclusive, and equitable educational environment for all students in Lithuania.