A proposed bill aimed at introducing reproductive health education in schools has sparked a heated debate within the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training. The ‘Federal Supervision of Curricula, Textbooks and Maintenance of Standards of Education (Amendments) Bill, 2024’, presented by Senator Quratulain Marri of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), has sparked both support and opposition due to its sensitive content and potential cultural implications.
Alarming Statistics Prompt Legislative Attention
The move to include reproductive health education in school curricula comes amid alarming statistics reported by UNICEF:
- 18.9 million girls in Pakistan are married before the age of 18.
- 4.6 million are married even before they turn 16 — the current legal age of marriage in Pakistan.
These figures underline the urgency to address the lack of reproductive health awareness and empower children — especially girls — through informed education.
Committee’s Reaction: Divided Opinions and Cultural Sensitivity
During Monday’s session, the committee engaged in intense deliberation. Some senators completely rejected the bill, while others called for modifications to address cultural and societal sensitivities.
- Senators Kamran Murtaza and Gurdeep Singh opposed the bill in its entirety.
- Others suggested setting a minimum age — either 13 or 16 years — for introducing reproductive health education, striking a balance between awareness and tradition.
Due to differing views, the committee decided to defer the bill for further consultations, especially with the Ministry of Education.
Senator Marri Defends the Bill’s Intent
In exclusive remarks, Senator Marri expressed her disappointment:
“It is very unfortunate that a bill aimed at giving our children basic education is being opposed. Today, we can’t control what kids see on social media. It’s better we provide them with structured, approved information.”
She reiterated her stance on social media platform X, stating that health education is a vital tool to ensure children grow up well-informed and protected.
Objective: Protection from Abuse and Misinformation
Committee Chairperson Senator Bushra Anjum Butt emphasized the bill’s intent, highlighting that it seeks to combat:
- Child abuse
- Online misinformation
- Lack of understanding of physical, mental, and emotional development
She stated that structured education is essential in protecting children and equipping them with accurate, age-appropriate knowledge.
Need for Action: Rising Reproductive Health Issues in Pakistan
Pakistan faces an uphill battle when it comes to reproductive healthcare access, particularly for women. Incidents of unsafe abortions and related medical complications are rising at an alarming rate. Public health experts and women’s rights advocates have continuously urged the government to introduce awareness programs in schools to bridge the critical information gap.
Recent Legislative Progress: A Step Toward Reform
In a landmark move this May, the National Assembly passed a bill imposing stricter penalties to prevent child marriages. The legislation bars any nikah khwan (marriage registrar) from officiating a marriage involving individuals under the age of 18 — a clear step toward enforcing legal protections for minors and empowering girls.
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