In many rural and tribal communities, discussions about sexuality, reproductive health, and gender relationships remain taboo. Myths, stigma, and cultural hesitations prevent young individuals from accessing accurate and essential knowledge. The Gurukul Ashram School in Deolapar faced similar challenges, where adolescent tribal students, especially those in the 11th and 12th grades, struggled with numerous misconceptions arising from unreliable digital content. Addressing these concerns, to tackle these challenges, a well-structured, sensitive, and scientifically grounded intervention was essential. This is where CYDA’s TARANG Workshop ( Talking to Adolescents on Reproductive Health and Gender) made a significant impact.
Major concerns of the students
At Gurukul Ashram School, students faced challenges in understanding key aspects of their growth. The use of mobile devices exposed them to misleading digital content, developing myths about sexuality. Sensitive topics like reproductive health, contraception, and relationships were treated as taboos, leaving students without accurate guidance. The lack of safe learning spaces prevented open discussion, while societal stigma hindered conversations on HIV/AIDS, sexual practices, and body literacy. These issues highlighted the urgent need for structured educational sessions that provide clarity, promote dialogue, and offer scientifically accurate knowledge for healthy decision-making.
TARANG sessions
Adolescence is a crucial phase marked by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes, often accompanied by confusion, misinformation, and societal pressures. Without proper guidance, young individuals may struggle to navigate this transformative period. Initiatives like TARANG play a vital role in addressing these challenges by providing accurate information, emotional support, and a nurturing environment. These sessions empower adolescents by offering a safe space to explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop essential life skills for a successful future
Intervention: The TARANG Initiative
To address the gaps in adolescent education, CYDA organized a six-day TARANG Workshop, aimed at creating an open, engaging, and informative environment for students. The sessions provided holistic education on sexuality and adolescence, addressing critical areas with sensitivity and scientific accuracy.
Communication and Gender Perspective
The workshop emphasized the importance of open communication about gender roles, relationships, and sexuality. Students were guided to express their thoughts and feelings while challenging social constructs around gender. Facilitators promoted respect and equality in relationships, fostering a more inclusive mindset among participants.
Body Literacy and Adolescent Changes
Understanding the physical and emotional changes of adolescence is key to self-awareness and confidence. The workshop provided insights into puberty-related transformations, covering male and female bodily changes, hormonal developments, and their emotional and mental impact.
Human Reproductive System and Contraception
Reproductive health and contraception are often surrounded by misconceptions. The sessions clarified these topics with detailed explanations of male and female reproductive organs, safe sexual practices, and contraceptive methods, including proper condom use. This education empowered students to make informed decisions, reducing risks of unwanted pregnancies and STIs.
HIV/AIDS Awareness and Safe Practices
The stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS was addressed by debunking myths, educating students about transmission and prevention, and fostering empathy for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The TARANG Workshop provided a safe space for students to gain scientifically backed knowledge, challenge misconceptions, and build confidence, making a transformative impact on their understanding of sexuality and adolescence.
Nurturing open dialogue and empowering students
Conducting the TARANG Workshop presented several challenges despite its structured approach. Initially, many students were hesitant to discuss personal and sensitive topics openly, reflecting their discomfort and unfamiliarity with such conversations. Cultural barriers further complicated the process, as traditional mindsets often resisted discussions about contraception, safe sex, and other aspects of reproductive health. Additionally, fear of judgment discouraged some students from asking questions, worried about being perceived negatively by peers or facilitators.
To overcome these challenges, CYDA facilitators employed interactive learning techniques, storytelling, and peer discussions, which helped make the sessions more engaging and relatable. By developing a non-judgmental, safe, and friendly atmosphere, the facilitators gradually built trust and encouraged active participation. As students became more comfortable, they opened up about their doubts and shared experiences, leading to meaningful and productive discussions. This approach not only addressed their concerns but also empowered them with knowledge and confidence.
Impact: A shift in mind-set and awareness
The TARANG Workshop led to a transformative shift in students’ understanding of sexuality, relationships, and self-awareness. Students gained increased confidence, becoming more comfortable discussing sensitive topics and seeking information when needed. The workshop also helped in clarifying myths, as misconceptions about reproductive health, gender relationships, and contraception were addressed with scientific facts. Conversations surrounding HIV/AIDS and contraceptives became more normalized, reducing the stigma. Additionally, students developed a holistic awareness, gaining a well-rounded understanding of not just the physical aspects of sexuality but also its emotional, social, and psychological dimensions.
A Student’s sharing
One of the 12th-grade students, initially hesitant to engage, shared how the workshop changed his perspective:
“Before the TARANG sessions, I believed many things I saw on the internet about relationships and sexuality. I never had anyone to clarify my doubts, and discussing such topics with parents or teachers felt impossible. Through this workshop, I learnt the truth about the human body, relationships, and safe practices. Now, I feel more responsible and confident in handling these topics. I even shared some information with my friends, and they were surprised by how much they misunderstood. TARANG helped me see things clearly.”
Shaping a healthier & knowledgeable future
The TARANG Workshop at Gurukul Ashram School was a groundbreaking initiative to address adolescent curiosity and misconceptions about sexuality. By replacing myths with facts, fear with confidence, and stigma with understanding, the intervention empowered students with knowledge essential for responsible decision-making. The continuous support and guidance provided, encouraged students to seek reliable information and continue discussing these topics openly. In a society where conversations around sexuality remain muted, initiatives like TARANG serve as initiatives of change, ensuring young individuals receive the right information at the right time. The transformation seen in the students at Gurukul Ashram School is evidence of the power of education in shaping a healthier, more informed future generation.
(This article is contributed by Wasim Shaikh, Program Officer, at CYDA)
