Bengaluru: In a landmark decision aimed at nurturing the moral and ethical foundations of students, the Karnataka government has announced the introduction of moral science classes for students from Class 1 to 12 in government schools, beginning next academic year. This significant initiative was unveiled by Primary and Secondary Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa during a legislative council session on March 19, 2025.
"We will start moral science classes for Class 1 to 12 from the next [academic] year. We have one month for it, and officials from the education department are available," said Bangarappa, underlining the urgency of implementing the initiative based on the recommendations of council members.
In pursuit of enhancing literacy rates and educational quality, the government has recognized that nearly 38% of students struggle with basic reading and writing skills. Bangarappa emphasized this issue, stating, "Multiple studies show that around 38% of students do not know how to read and write." He assured that the education department is implementing strategies to improve educational outcomes with the assistance of local officials and legislators.
The government is also focusing on fostering patriotism and imparting moral values among students. For instance, students will be required to read the Preamble of the Constitution in schools. In remarks about addressing exam malpractice, Bangarappa noted the efforts made to eliminate such issues, highlighting that "this has led to a decline in the pass percentage." However, he assures that teachers are now taking additional measures to ensure better academic results.
Bangarappa also touched on the issue of distractions from technology, particularly mobile phones, which he believes hinder education. He urged a collaborative effort to guide students toward constructive activities, such as respecting authority, environmental awareness, and civic responsibility. He advised parents against pressurizing their children with excessive expectations.
In addition to moral education, the Karnataka government is also integrating sex education into its curriculum for students in Classes 8 to 12, which aims to promote open discussions and understanding of important developmental topics. Starting next academic year, there will be two mandatory sessions each week for these grades. During these sex education classes, medical practitioners will guide students on the physiological and emotional changes associated with puberty and how to navigate them.
According to Minister Bangarappa, the introduction of sex education stems from concerns regarding adolescent issues such as premature sexual activity and teenage pregnancies. He mentioned, "The government is planning education in cyber hygiene to prevent digital addiction among schoolchildren," indicating a comprehensive approach to student well-being.
Furthermore, counselling committees will be established in colleges, with a female lecturer designated as a nodal officer to facilitate discussions about challenges faced by girl students. This initiative acknowledges the need for safe spaces where young women can freely express their concerns.
The minister also proposed that psychological counselling will be available twice a year, focusing on issues like emotional confusion and anxiety, reflective of the growing mental health awareness among adolescents.
Overall, these educational reforms being spearheaded by the Karnataka government reflect a robust framework aimed at creating well-rounded, informed, and ethical citizens. The introduction of moral science and the focus on key topics such as sex education and cyber hygiene represent a proactive response to the changing dynamics in society and the challenges faced by today's youth.
Bangarappa's commitment to bettering the educational landscape, alongside the collaborative efforts of government officials, legislators, and parents, emphasizes a unified approach to nurturing the next generation. These initiatives not only cater to the educational needs but also play a crucial role in addressing the moral and emotional development of students.
