Study Hall Educational Foundation Launches India’s First Contextualized Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum in Lucknow

Lucknow, October 27, 2025 — In line with the new National Education Policy 2020, the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) today launched its landmark “Sex, Relationships, and Society: Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum”. The event marked a significant step toward transforming how Indian schools approach comprehensive sexuality education — from silence and stigma to dialogue and empowerment.

Dr Urvashi Sahni Founder & CEO, Study Hall Educational Foundation said, Our Comprehensive Sexuality Education curriculum is not about a few lessons on biology — it is about helping children understand who they are, what they value, and how they relate to others and the world. It equips them to think critically, challenge harmful norms, and build relationships rooted in care, respect, and equality. True education must prepare every young person to live with dignity and empathy — that is why this curriculum is so essential.”

The event drew participation from leading educators and institutions across the city, including Study Hall School, La Martinière, Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, CMS, APS Academy, GD Goenka, Kunskapasskolan, Study Hall Deva Road, Adani Gems and several others came together for this launch. Their presence reflected a growing recognition that comprehensive, age-appropriate sexuality education is essential for the holistic development of young people in today’s world.

Shreevats Shukla a, student of class 12 at Study Hall School said, “We can’t stay silent about things that shape our lives every day. Talking about taboo topics like gender, relationships, and consent helps us unlearn the wrong ideas we’ve absorbed and relearn what it really means to be respectful and kind. Men and fathers have to be part of this conversation too — because change begins when all of us question and redefine masculinity together.”

Developed under the leadership of Zarine Garcia, the new curriculum is the result of extensive research, student consultations, and pilot testing across SHEF’s network of schools, including Prerna Girls, Prerna Boys, and Study Hall. It takes a whole-person approach, addressing themes such as self-awareness, relationships, consent, gender, sexual and reproductive health, digital safety, and inclusion.

Speaking on the occasion a parent said, “When adults don’t talk to young people about these issues, the internet becomes their teacher. Our responsibility is to ensure that what they learn is factual, respectful, and empowering.”

The Sex, Relationships, and Society curriculum adopts a whole-person, rights-based approach that integrates knowledge, values, and critical thinking to help students navigate issues of identity, relationships, gender, and health. Organized into seven modules, it covers themes such as self-awareness, healthy relationships, consent, gender and culture, puberty and reproduction, sexual and reproductive health, inclusion of LGBTQ+ identities, and positive attitudes toward desire and pleasure.

Vanshika Mishra a student, Seth M.R. Jaipuria School said “Young people, especially girls, deserve accurate information — not shame or silence. When we understand our bodies, our rights, and our choices, we can stand up to discrimination and make decisions for ourselves. Comprehensive sexuality education isn’t just about health; it’s about equality, confidence, and freedom.”

Together, these modules provide adolescents with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and well-being, while promoting empathy, equality, and respect. Each curriculum set is accompanied by teacher training and mentoring support, including a full-day workshop, follow-up sessions, and a year-long guidance program to ensure safe and effective classroom delivery.

Each curriculum set is paired with teacher training and mentoring, including a full-day workshop, follow-up sessions, and a year of support to help schools implement it effectively.

Other news links

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/study-hall-launches-comprehensive-sexuality-curriculum/articleshow/124857668.cms

https://upplus.in/Study-Hall-Educational-Foundation-I

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/study-hall-educational-foundation-launches-indias-first/cid17692009.htm

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/study-hall-educational-foundation-unveils-india%E2%80%99s-first/cid17693418.htm

Equipping students with emerging technology skills: IoT and Machine Learning workshop

Study Hall College hosted a hands-on Internet of Things (IoT) workshop, bringing the future of technology to life for students. The interactive session offered students an opportunity to gain practical exposure to real-world IoT applications, enhance their technical skills, and engage directly with industry experts. The workshop was led by Mr Ibrahim Khan, IoT and Machine Learning Developer, whose expertise and guidance made the learning experience both enriching and impactful. Students actively participated in demonstrations and discussions, fostering innovation, curiosity, and technical confidence.

Study Hall College hosts debate on dowry

At Study Hall College, we continue to inspire social change by nurturing informed, empathetic, and reform-minded youth committed to building a more just society. The debate “Dowry: Blessing or Curse” encouraged students to critically examine the historical context of dowry as a parental gift while confronting its darker reality as a deep-rooted cause of inequality, violence, and exploitation. Through informed arguments and active participation, the debate fostered meaningful dialogue and reflection. In conclusion, it reinforced a collective call to eradicate the dowry system through education, awareness, and mutual respect. 

Open mic session celebrates International Day of the Girl Child 

Committed to creating inclusive and empowering spaces, Study Hall College continues to champion girls’ leadership, empowerment, and positive social change. In collaboration with Aarohini Advocacy, SHC hosted an impactful open mic session to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. The event provided a vibrant platform for students to showcase their talents and confidently share their dreams, voices, and aspirations. Through poetry, storytelling, and performances, the participants highlighted the transformative power of education, equality, and self-expression. The event stood as a celebration of courage, creativity, and resilience—honouring the unstoppable spirit of girls striving for a brighter and more equitable future.       

Workshop on self-awareness, self-acceptance, and empowerment

As part of Study Hall College’s ongoing efforts to nurture confident, self-aware, and empowered young individuals, a workshop was conducted by Niharika Gangwar from Navigate Growth on Self-Awareness, Self-Acceptance, and Empowerment.

The session aimed to help students understand themselves better and embrace their authentic identities—an essential step in building emotional strength and personal resilience. Through a series of interactive discussions, engaging activities, and reflective exercises, students explored how self-awareness and acceptance contribute to personal and professional growth.

Participants reported feeling more confident and motivated to approach challenges with a positive mindset. The workshop thus contributed meaningfully to the College’s vision of fostering holistic development and preparing students to become self-assured, empathetic, and capable individuals.

BCA Hackathon: Showcasing student innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence

The BCA Hackathon 2025 at Study Hall College served as an exciting platform for students to demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence. The event brought together young minds for intensive brainstorming and creative coding challenges that combined learning with enjoyment.

Through friendly competition and team-based problem-solving, students gained valuable exposure to real-world applications of technology while enhancing their analytical and collaborative skills. The enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment displayed by all participants made the Hackathon a significant milestone in promoting experiential and skill-based learning at the College.

Building cyber awareness and employability skills among BCA students

Study Hall College organized an informative session titled “Cyber-सक्षम: Awareness to Employability in Cyber Security & AI” for its BCA students. The session aimed to build awareness about online safety, cyber threats, digital hygiene, and the growing career opportunities in Cyber Security and Artificial Intelligence.

Led by Mr. Vijay Kumar Jhingran, Vice President of ICSS, the session provided valuable insights into responsible digital practices and the evolving landscape of technology-driven careers. The interaction helped students enhance their understanding of digital responsibility while inspiring them to explore emerging professional pathways in these high-demand sectors.

Learning beyond classroom: Visit to National Book Fair 

The BJMC students of Study Hall College participated in an educational visit to the National Book Fair 2025, designed to provide real-world exposure to the fields of media, publishing, and communication. Beyond exploring books, students interacted with publishers, discovered emerging content trends, and gained insights into the evolving media landscape.

The visit fostered experiential learning, curiosity, and critical thinking, helping students connect classroom concepts with industry practices. It served as a valuable step in enhancing their professional understanding and preparing them for future media-oriented careers.

Workshop on graphic design and visual storytelling

Study Hall College organized an engaging Graphic Designing Workshop for BAJMC students, led by Prakhar Srivastava, Founder of Glyphmarks Advertising Agency. The session introduced students to key design fundamentals, creative processes, and industry insights, inspiring them to think beyond conventional design approaches. Through hands-on learning and interactive discussions, students gained practical exposure to the art of visual storytelling. The workshop provided an enriching experience for aspiring media professionals, enhancing their creative confidence and professional readiness.

Tally ERP skill development workshop with Mahindra Pride Naandi Foundation

Study Hall College organized a one-week Tally Workshop in association with the Mahindra Pride Naandi Foundation. During the programme, students received hands-on training in Tally ERP and gained practical knowledge of financial management and accounting processes. Amit Uttrani and the Naandi Foundation for their support and guidance throughout the workshop. The active participation and enthusiasm of the students contributed greatly to the success of the programme. All participants were awarded Certificates of Completion, marking a week of learning, skill development, and new professional opportunities.