Valentine’s Day took place once again, and with it comes an issue that many teenagers have long experienced but rarely discuss openly. It is time to confront the persistent taboo surrounding sex.

At home, conversations about sex are often nonexistent. Naturally curious children are left without guidance because any attempt to ask questions is frequently dismissed with a single response: “Bastos!” Even mentioning the subject is treated as inappropriate. The simple reality of human anatomy is censored, and neutral terms are replaced with unneeded euphemisms. 

As a result, children raised in such environments turn to the internet for answers. Without proper guidance, they risk developing misconceptions about sex because meaningful discussions with trusted adults were never encouraged.

When these conversations are silenced at home, schools could serve as an alternative space for learning. Educators can be properly trained to teach a comprehensive curriculum that goes beyond basic reproductive biology. Such education should include family planning, contraception, protection, and inclusive discussions that address all genders without prejudice. A well-designed program could help mitigate pressing national concerns such as HIV, AIDS, and teenage pregnancy.

These issues should never be normalized. What should be normalized is access to accurate, responsible sexual education that equips young people with a strong foundation of knowledge. Proper education empowers youth to make informed decisions rather than leaving them vulnerable to misinformation.

However, resistance remains strong. Traditional perspectives often oppose the inclusion of sexual education in the formal curriculum, arguing that such topics should be solely the responsibility of parents, and they have the right to either give it or not based on their preferences and beliefs. Legislative efforts such as the Anti-Teenage Pregnancy Bill aimed at increasing reproductive health awareness and addressing teenage pregnancy are frequently criticized by those who believe sex education should remain restricted. 

While parental involvement is important, the absence of structured education has contributed to widespread misunderstanding and stigma towards the various issues regarding the topic. This should be an eye-opener for everyone— locking the door does not mitigate anything; in fact, it adds fuel to the fiery harm of no possession to proper awareness.

It’s already 2026, and it is necessary to acknowledge reality. Many young people lack a reliable foundation of knowledge about sex because they are taught incomplete or inaccurate beliefs, often framed in shame. This approach does not protect them; it leaves them unprepared.

It is time to move forward. Young people deserve honest, responsible education about a natural part of human life. Sex is neither inherently shameful nor inappropriate to understand. It is a subject that requires openness, accuracy, and maturity. Accepting this is not about encouraging behavior; it is about equipping the next generation with the knowledge they need to grow safely, responsibly, and confidently.