A group of students in white school uniforms sit at wooden desks inside a classroom, focused on writing in their notebooks. Several students are wearing black face masks.

Sex education is now a mandatory subject in the Cambodian school curriculum

Cambodia is investing in sex education

In Sweden, a government inquiry is proposing to weaken the role of sex education in schools. Meanwhile, Cambodia is taking big steps in the opposite direction. Through a partnership with RFSU and RHAC, comprehensive, rights-based sexuality education is now being integrated into the country's schools.

What?

The integration of Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) into Cambodia’s education system shows amazingly positive results and marks a transformative step towards equipping young people with essential knowledge about their bodies, relationships, and rights. Through a partnership between RFSU, RHAC, and Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport, CSE has been incorporated into the national Health Education curriculum. The School Health Department (SHD) played a key role in developing textbooks, lesson plans, and teacher training programs. Cambodia has committed to train over 80 000 teachers and reach over 3,5 million young people, ensuring that students across Cambodia receive fact-based, rights-focused education on sexuality, gender equality, and reproductive health.

A young woman with braided pigtails stands in front of a large wooden bookcase, looking toward the camera with a calm expression. She is wearing a light blue uniform shirt with yellow trim and a matching yellow tie.

Since I have received sex education, I understand that sex is no longer an issue that we should avoid discussing. It is a part of life that will happen to everyone," says Rachana Touch from Phnom Penh.

Why?

Over the past three decades, CSE in Cambodia has evolved from focusing on HIV prevention to a comprehensive, rights-based approach. Initially limited to biology and abstinence, it now covers gender equality, sexual well-being, pleasure, relationships and violence prevention. CSE also plays a critical role in challenging harmful social norms, reducing stigma around menstruation and puberty, and addressing discrimination against marginalized groups, including LGBTQI+ individuals. By educating young people on these issues, CSE empowers them to make informed choices, thereby reducing gender-based violence and fostering a culture of equality and respect.

A young woman with bangs smiles warmly while resting her arms on a wooden table against a plain white background. She is wearing a white collared uniform shirt with a red text patch on the pocket.

“I am more confident and more open to talk about sexuality and these topics with my friends. CSE can help me prepare for the future and take good care of myself.” Hon Ty Leakhna, Kampot Province

How?

The successful integration of CSE into the Cambodian education system was achieved through a multi-pronged approach that combined curriculum development, teacher training, and public engagement. RHAC played a crucial role in producing educational materials that align with Cambodian cultural and social norms while ensuring the content remains accurate and inclusive. RFSU’s extensive experience in sexual education contributed to making the textbooks youth-friendly and supportive.

A woman with dark hair tied back sits with her hands clasped, wearing a white top adorned with embroidered pink and blue flowers. She poses against a blurred background of lush green foliage.

“I am glad that both my children are learning about CSE because I never learned about these things when I was young.” Han Navet, Kampot TownPhoto: RHAC

Beyond classroom instruction, RHAC’s Youth Centers serve as safe spaces where young people can ask questions and seek guidance from peer educators. These centers supplement formal education, particularly benefiting girls and young women who may feel uncomfortable discussing sensitive topics with adults. RHAC and RFSU have also developed educational tools such as animated videos to make learning about puberty and bodily development more engaging and accessible.

Furthermore, RFSU-led workshops have helped educators and policymakers refine their approaches to sexuality education, moving beyond outdated anatomy-focused lessons toward a sex-positive perspective. These workshops encourage local stakeholders to reflect on their own biases and explore new ways to normalize discussions about sexual health and well-being.

A smiling man wearing black-rimmed glasses and a white button-down shirt stands with his arms crossed. A modern indoor staircase is visible in the blurred background.

“Sexuality isn’t a medical problem to be solved but a fundamental part of human life, with all its joys, sorrows, happiness, and disappointments.” Senior Advisor for Sexuality Education at RFSU, Hans OlssonPhoto: Daniel Ivarsson

Watch the organization RHAC's film on the sexuality education initiative here (Youtube).

Updated: 26 may 2026

Published: 16 may 2025