What do you think about sexual health education in Malta?
Sexual health education in Malta is very basic. At school it was more about sex from a biological perspective and protecting ourselves from sexually transmitted infections. We did not discuss sexuality and relationships at great length. Warren Borg Ebejer, 1st year PGCE English.
It leaves a lot to be desired. Children need to learn about facts, rather than ideals. The sexual health curriculum does not cover everything necessary. This can be seen by the increasing number of STIs and teenage pregnancies. The curriculum should be reformed. Emma Portelli Bonnici, 5th year Law.
Sexual health is included in PSD classes in private schools. The topic is not discussed in other schools and I think they should prioritise this in the curriculum. It is vital for young adults to understand the importance of safety and protection when it comes to sex. Julia Aquilina, 1st year European Studies.
Do you agree with reducing the age of consent? Why?
The age of consent should remain as it is. At 16, adolescents can be rather immature and impulsive in their decisions, especially when it comes to sex. This is not to say that one is mature at 18. Far from it. Sex must not be taken lightly but treated with great responsibility. Warren Borg Ebejer
The age of sexual consent is not the crux of the problem. The issue is that under 18s are engaging in unsafe sex and medical professionals cannot help them without their parents’consent. Whether or not the age of sexual consent is lowered, youths need information from the right people at the right time. Emma Portelli Bonnici
I do not think the age should be reduced. Sexual acts should not be taken lightly at such an age. Julia Aquilina
Are there enough sexual health services for young people?
There may be a lot of sexual health services but I am only aware of the Mater Dei GU Clinic. Warren Borg Ebejer
Few sexual health services are available. Though the GU Clinic is a good initiative, there is need for more safe spaces for sixth formers or a clinic at university. The GU Clinic needs to be better advertised. Emma Portelli Bonnici
Services exist, but people see this as something to be frowned upon, so a young person might be embarrassed to seek help. Julia Aquilina
Compiled by Insite – the student media organisation.