FALSE reporting, fake news and videos about Comprehensive Sexuality Education to be implemented in schools have created confusion and anxiety among parents in particular.
This is according to the Department of Basic Education (DBE) who issued a press release, stating it has noted with concern the impact fake news has had on the debate around the issue of the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).
The Department therefore wishes to distance itself from a series of images that have been circulated on social media in recent weeks. These images are not part of the books produced by the Department.
Members of the public have been contacting the Department about videos with incorrect information that have also been distributed on social media.
In the press statement the Department said, “These social media posts have misled the public and created unnecessary anxiety and anger especially among parents.
“Social media has been an integral part of the fake news campaign against the Department regarding the issue of the Comprehensive Sexuality Education.
“The DBE is aware of a lobby group against CSE that is creating misleading social media posts and feeding the public contaminated information.”
One of the many images shows adults in bed with graphic details. Another piece of fake news says the DBE will distribute condoms with stationery in 2020.
The DBE has cautioned that there is a difference between what is on the internet, social media and what is contained in the books of the Department. Parents are therefore urged to verify with the Department before making decisions based on information published by certain organisations and individuals.
“The purpose of CSE is to address sexual abuse, HIV infections, learner pregnancy, and bullying and peer pressure and help learners stay in school until they complete Grade 12, at least.
“Some media organisations have perpetuated the outrage with the continued reference to ‘sex education’ and ‘sex curriculum’. The correct reference is Comprehensive Sexuality Education. It is part of a section of the Life Orientation subject, which focuses on sexuality as opposed to sex.”
