In Albania, during the last 25 years, many interventions have been implemented in order to improve health education of young people in various formal and non – formal settings. Interventions aim, among other things, to reach as many young people as possible, even those who do not attend school or those who belong to marginalized groups. Initially, these interventions focused on improving knowledge, attitude and skills of young people on issues such as family planning (modern contraception), pregnancy and childbirth, STIs, including HIV and AIDS. Issues such as violence and sexual abuse, human rights, sexuality and reducing stigma on young vulnerable groups were more addressed during the last decade.
Parents and families play a key role in shaping the way we understand our sexual and social identities. Parents should be able to address physical and behavioral aspects of human sexuality to children and young people, and the latter should be informed and equipped with the knowledge and skills to make responsible decisions about sexuality, relationships, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Preparing children and young people for adulthood has always been one of mankind's greatest challenges, centered on sexuality and human relationships.
If we want to have an impact on children and young people before they are sexually active, it is necessary to include comprehensive sexuality education in the school curricula. Teachers are an invaluable resource in the fight against STIs in the education sector.
Special efforts should also be made to reach those children who do not attend school - and who are often more prone to misinformation and exploitation. In this context, as part of the reform that has included pre-university education in Albania, UNFPA, Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth and the Pre-university Education Quality Assurance Agency have conceived a multidimensional intervention in the educational system with the aim of equipping teachers with attitudes, knowledge and skills needed to plan and facilitate sexuality education.
