NGO Girls, in partnership with the international humanitarian organization Save the Children, has launched the project "Strengthening civil society to safeguard children’s rights".
The project includes advocacy for the nationwide implementation of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).
Why does this matter?
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) in Ukrainian schools remains limited and fragmented, despite strong demand from children, parents, and educators. As a result, adolescents often turn to unverified sources — the internet, peers, or media — to learn about their bodies, health, and rights. Meanwhile, schools remain the most reliable and universal channel to provide evidence-based information on sexual and reproductive health and rights.
Project goal: to strengthen children's rights and protection in Ukraine by advancing the nationwide implementation of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE).
Duration: 01.02.2026 — 31.12.2028
Geography: all Ukrainian government-controlled territory
Who is this project for?
Target audience:
Children and adolescents (ages 10–18) across urban, rural, and conflict-affected areas.
Parents and caregivers seeking guidance and engagement in sexual health education.
School leadership and educators responsible for curriculum delivery and safeguarding.
Partners and stakeholders:
Ministry of Education and Science, Institute of Modernization of Education (IMZO), and other education authorities.
NGOs and civil society partners engaged in child protection and sexual health.
What does the project include?
Needs assessment — conducting focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) with children, parents, and other stakeholders to gather evidence on the demand for CSE.
Youth camp for adolescents — a capacity-building program for young leaders and opinion leaders to become CSE ambassadors in their schools and communities.
Training of Trainers (ToT) for educators — strengthening teachers' knowledge and skills to support CSE implementation.
Advocacy — engagement with Departments of Education and a high-level roundtable with the Ministry of Education and Science (MoES).
Media campaigns — tailored content for children, parents, educators, and government authorities to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and normalize discussions on sexual health and rights.
Expected results:
Increased knowledge and awareness among children and parents about CSE and its importance.
Educators prepared with knowledge and practical materials to deliver age-appropriate, inclusive lessons.
Advocacy briefs and materials developed based on research findings.
Strengthened policy engagement with the Ministry of Education and Science for nationwide CSE adoption.
Reduced stigma around discussions on sexual health and children's rights.
The project is implemented with financial support from the Government of Sweden (SIDA). The content of this material is the sole responsibility of the NGO “Girls” and does not necessarily reflect the views of Save the Children and the Government of Sweden (SIDA).
