Kailali, July 1 -- School curriculum and textbooks in Nepal include sexuality education, but in practice students rarely receive the knowledge they need. Mainly in the rural places, students complain that lessons on sexuality remain confined to textbooks-hindered by social taboos, teacher discomfort and the absence of an open classroom environment.

Sarika (changed name), who is pursuing higher studies in a Dhangadhi-based educational institution in Kailali district, recalls studying 'health education' since grade six, yet understanding little about sexuality. "As soon as the teacher mentioned sex education, the classroom would turn awkward-boys giggled, girls looked away in shame," she says. Despite her curiosity, she never felt comforta...