No Longer a Taboo! Hundreds of Elementary School Students Receive Sexual and Reproductive Health Education from the UNISA Yogyakarta Team

A total of 134 fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students from Muhammadiyah Karangkajen Elementary School in Yogyakarta received an unusual lesson on Thursday (September 11). Instead of math or science, they were invited by a team from ‘Aisyiyah University (UNISA) Yogyakarta to thoroughly discuss reproductive health.

The school took this bold step to equip students with accurate understanding as they approach the critical period of puberty.

Reproductive Health

The principal of SD Muhammadiyah Karangkajen, Novia Nuryany, S.Pd., openly stated that this education is vital. According to her, understanding reproductive health is the foundation to ensure children do not make mistakes and are able to protect themselves and grow and develop healthily.

“We want the children to receive the right knowledge from a trusted source. That way, they can be better prepared and more confident as they enter adolescence,” said Novia during the opening of the event.

The session was led by Dr. Windi Sawitri, M.Biomed. She thoroughly covered topics that often spark curiosity: ranging from physical and psychological changes during puberty, how to maintain reproductive organ hygiene, to the ethics of healthy social interactions with peers.

The result? Beyond expectations. The head of the organizing team from UNISA Yogyakarta, Bdn. Fayakun Nur Rohmah, S.ST., MPH, admitted she was both surprised and delighted to see the students’ enthusiasm.

“The students were very active in responding and didn’t hesitate to ask questions. This is a strong indication that they truly need this kind of education, even as early as elementary school,” said Fayakun.

She hopes that this activity won’t just be a ceremonial event, but will truly serve as a foundation for students to navigate puberty more responsibly.