Launch of first Irish university programme on Sexuality and Sexual Health Education

The first Irish university taught programme on Sexuality and Sexual Health Education will commence this coming September at Dublin City University.

Recent research has shown that sexually transmitted infections (STIS) and unplanned pregnancies remain significant public health issues and that embarrassment about discussing sex, sexuality and contraception remain a challenge when delivering education and information. In addition, barriers still exist in relation to open communication around sexual identity and sex, particularly when parents and teachers are communicating to children and young people.

Dublin City University have devised the Level 9 Graduate Certificate in Sexuality and Sexual Health Education with the Irish Family Planning Association (IFPA). The programme content will focus on developing knowledge regarding the diversity of sexualities and culture, sexual health education and sexual health promotion, in addition to teaching and learning about sexual health.

DCU Programme Chair Mel Duffy said: “Our society has changed enormously in the last number of decades, but significant work still remains with regards to discussing our sexual health, sexual identity and gender identity in an open and transparent manner. Research has shown that embarrassment is still a major factor when it comes to discussing sex and sexuality and this is of significant concern when it comes to educating our future generations. This course will approach these topics free from stigma or bias, delivering up to date and evidence based content. It is about providing the knowledge and is of significant interest to professionals working in this field, but so too those who will have to deal with these topics, in any capacity, whether it is in a school, home or work setting.”

The recently published Health Service Executive’s National Sexual Health Strategy 2015-2020, outlined that “high quality training for relevant professionals is a crucial element of promoting sexual health and well-being and reducing negative sexual health outcomes.” The strategy found that over 35% of women had experienced an unplanned pregnancy and that the highest rate of STIS was among young people under 25 years of age and men who have sex with men (MSM).

In addition, it found that early school leavers, young people in care or aftercare, people with disabilities or mental health problems, young adults and LGBT people were most at risk of experiencing negative sexual health outcomes.

IFPA Training and Development Manager, Anita Ghafoor-Butt said: “This programme is the first of its kind in Ireland and provides an integrated and best practice approach to sexual health within a quality assured framework at a third level institution. The IFPA has developed innovative sexual health training for over ten years and has been actively involved in the development of this programme. The IFPA will also facilitate delivery programme modules, in partnership with DCU, and will provide practical and evidence-based learning on sexual health and wellbeing.”