Egyptian Feminists Protest End of Sex Education Curriculums
/Sex Ed in Egypt
Sexual Harassment File: Sex education as remedy Al-Masry Al-Youm
Photographed by Ahmed AlmasryEgyptian feminists are working to reinstate the October 2010 Ministry of Education decision that removed sex education curriculums from the classroom, replacing them with class discussion topics.
The surprising move triggered violent reactions from professionals and activists. Non-governmental organizations (NGO), such as the New Woman Foundation and the Egyptian Center for Women’s Rights, raised their voices in protest.
Egyptian feminists reject the idea that mothers are better in conveying knowledge to their daughters. In an interview with Al Jazeera English in 2007, psychologist and sex therapist Abier Al-Barbary explained, “I think we do not really get that much information from mums. Unfortunately we are dealing with several generations passing down their own discomfort with sex.”
Hela Kotb’s “Kalam Kebier” (Serious Talk) arrived on Egyptian TV in 2006 as the first Arabic-speaking talk show on sexual subjects.
As for sexual harassment, which is a huge problem in Egypt, the feminist activist explains. “It is part of the social and psychological aspects of sexuality, two aspects that are often neglected in Egypt. I link it to the role of perceptions within the framework of patriarchy. In short, men are empowered and believe they have the authority to act as they please toward women.”
Last week 15 feminist associations called for women’s rights to be guaranteed in the new constitution. The groups also requested the establishment of a women’s quota in parliament and at a local level. Ensuring prosecution for sexual harassment is another goal.
“Sexual harassment is definitely an issue that post-revolutionary governments will have to face, whoever they are,” concludes Ebeid. “On the road to change, enhancing sex education will be a cornerstone.”
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