Many parents and teachers shun curiosity on sex. Sex is prohibited but the children see their mothers pregnant. They see families break up and new unions formed. Above all are the filmy romances and sexy songs to fuel their imagination.

Children become aware of sex in schools. They respond differently to the teachers of the opposite sex. They are aware if a teacher is pregnant or getting married. Recently I had a very peculiar experience. Girls were so keen to know if I was unmarried. “Please sir tell us if..?” After knowing about my marital status they became indifferent.

A student recently introduced me to his new girlfriend. “She’s Preeti whom I adore the most.” A few days back a girl of fifteen showed me a book: “Sir this is the book that I borrowed from the library, it’s very interesting.” She added: “I read a real story: A wife hits her hubby as he can’t satisfy her...” I suddenly looked at her face; there were no blushes or winces!

Thanks to MTV and Channel V, these kids have become very bold. Once I was reading a book at the British Council when a group of boys rushed to inquire about the Kamasutra section. When I raised my eyebrows they retorted: “So what’s the big deal?”

It was my first day in a new school. I asked the class to write about an unforgettable experience. A girl wrote: “Since I am dating, the experience is truly romantic.” Later she asked: “Is love making really awful?” Back home, my eighth-grade niece talks more about reproductive health and family planning than her mother. “Uncle, I want to become a gynaecologist.” Is this advancement or hell? I sometimes ponder what’s right?

Today’s generation accumulates a sea of ideas. But are those the correct ones? The Internet has become a major source. Sex is not a taboo, especially in big cities like Kathmandu. We keep male and female students in the same classrooms. But we must also prepare them to handle their problems maturely as their hormones may kick in. As sex is an inalienable need, we shouldn’t shy away from discussing it. Teachers are expected to play a crucial role. In the absence of a formal programme on sex education many students can be misguided or even doomed.