How 'Consent Classes' In Kenya Reduced Cases Of Sexual Harassment

In a world full of casual misogyny and sexism, imagine what effect it can have if boys were taught to respect girls and women. An example has emerged from Nairobi, Kenya, where 'consent classes' have changed young children perspectives on gender. The classes are conducted as part of quasi-experimental and randomized control trials in Kenya and Malawi by No Means No Worldwide, Ujaama Africa, UK Department for International Development. The classes are being conducted since 2009 and have reached about 180,000 boys and girls.Following these classes, there has been an average of 51% decrease in the incidents of rape. Also, the percentage of boys who intervened in an incident of harassment increased from 26% to 74%.These classes do not just explain what consent means but also teach self defense and help boys understand what masculinity means.'Sexual Consent Classes' are also conducted for university students at many universities in UK. These classes don't just talk about what consent means but cover a variety of topics such as positive masculinity.Since the introduction of 'consent classes' in UK, there have been rising debates about the need for them. However, the positive change these classes have brought in Nairobi is an example that these classes can help rectify, to certain extent, the problems of sexual harassment on and off campus.A big yes. In a country which still struggles with the 'hows and whys' of sex education, 'consent classes' can be a solution to the long standing problem of gender segregation and casual sexism.In India, one of the unfortunate and not uncommon occurrences is onlookers disinterest in intervening to stop eve teasers or harassers.India also needs to rid men and young boys of toxic ideas about masculinity. Such classes can be a welcome change and help students, boys and girls alike, to develop a better understanding of what gender equality means and break harmful gender stereotypes.Click here for more Education News