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Christians in Ukraine oppose aspects of tolerance course in schools

An optional course on the issue of tolerance will be introduced into Ukrainian schools from the beginning of the new academic year, reports, reports RISU. The course was developed by experts of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and was successfully approved in schools in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia and Chernihiv. However, according to a news report by Molodizhna Pravda, reception of the innovative course by the Ukrainian public included dissent on inclusion of curriculum activities on homosexuality . RISU’s Ukrainian-language web page posted the story on 6 February 2008.

The course on tolerance is a 40-hour course which includes trainings and role plays. According to the manager of the UN project “Creating a Safe Environment for Ukrainian Youth,” Oksana Harnets, specially trained teachers and psychologists will teach children through various creative teaching methodologies to come to terms with other cultures, religions, customs, and sexual orientations.

The Gay Forum of Ukraine has expressed willingness to become educational visual aids for children. When the head of the Forum, Sviatoslav Sheremet, heard of the new school optional course, he stated that he would officially approach the Ministry of Education with a request to allow homosexuals to address pupils.

The Christians of Melitopol have already objected to the course. They intend not to allow the introduction of what they call “gay education” at educational institutions. Bishop Volodymyr Tokariev asked the Minister of Education Ivan Vakarchuk to provide him with full information about the course “Creating a Safe Environment for Ukrainian Youth” and participation of sexual minorities in lessons of tolerance for the children of general education institutions.

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[02/09/2008]

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